pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!


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Live Deeply

This season of Advent brings many things to mind – snow for a white Christmas, the star shining bright in the sky, the rough manger in the stable, the smell of animals and hay, the dream of peace and goodwill for all.  It is also a time of memories, built over a lifetime.

The season is a season full of love, joy, hope, and peace – all given and found in Jesus.  God’s steadfast love was poured out for us in the life and teachings of Christ.  The how-to guide Jesus Christ gave us brings these feelings of love, joy, hope, and peace to all the world.

God’s faithfulness that has always been demonstrated remains for us as well.  His faithfulness to Israel through all of her ups and downs is the same faithfulness that helps us through all of our trials as well.  It is through our knowledge of and experiences with God that we know He is faithful.  Because of this we know His promises will endure as well.  In this season of Advent, may we live deeply in love, joy, hope, and peace of Jesus Christ, living as shining children of the light.

Scripture reference: Psalm 85: 8-13


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Advent Living

Advent begins today.  The scripture passage from Mark is about being awake and alert. It is a call to be aware of God and His presence in our world.  There is a danger in simply going through the motions of life.  There is an equal danger in choosing to live life for self.

Advent is a time of waiting and watching for the work of God in our worlds.  We wait and watch with expectancy – sure that He is present among us.  We live in the belief that we are all God’s children.  Therefore we all have equal right and access to His presence.

There is an implication to that though.  Not all truly have equal access.  Not all know Christ and all He offers to each of us.  Part of our call as Christians is to share the good news and teachings of Jesus Christ so that they too can join in the family.  Part of our call is to provide access by removing barriers such as economic limitations and other injustices.  All are called to live as children of the light.

This Advent season, may we be alert and awake to all God has to offer.  May we walk fully as children of the light bringing love, mercy, and justice to all so that all may enter into the holiness of this Advent season.

Scripture reference: Mark 13: 24-37