Advent For Evangelicals

Christmas approaches
With the burden of tradition.

The city is decorated in holiday glitz.

We search for gifts amid the crowds.
Shouldn't we read the prophet's words?

Shouldn't we search for the Bethlehem babe?

Shouldn't we listen for the angel's message?

"Peace on Earth."

An old tradition calls to us from the past.

We, who abandoned the trappings of the Church,

Are called once more to Advent.

Let us remember
That a child born two thousand years ago

Changed the world.

His message is simple and unadorned.

Love God

And Love your neighbor.
Listen for His words.
"I am come."

Photo by daveiam

Give Thee Peace

The Lord bless thee, and keep thee;
The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee;
The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.

Last night, I saw politics in action.
Neighbor glared at neighbor.
Tempers flared.
At such times, these words of the Old Testament
Remind us how we should act toward
The members of our community.
We need to bless those that dwell near us.
We must want the best for neighbor.
God did not say to Moses:
Bless those that agree with you.
God said:
Bless all the children of Israel.
Let me remember that.
Remember I must continue
To live among all who vie
For their candidate.
Bless my political opponents
And keep them safe;
Be gracious unto them
And give them peace.