An Advent Message from Pastor Chad – Dec. 17
As we prepare for the fourth Sunday of Advent I am moved by this line from the shepherds in the story from Luke 2:15b, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” In this season, we can sometimes lose sight of where we are going. Undoubtedly the shepherds had much to do and many to care for, but in those moments of illumination they let their curiosity and wonder lead them to Bethlehem to see what God was up to. May we all do the same!
This Sunday is our Children’s Pageant and I wanted to share with you this prayer from Ariana Braithwaite Lehn called “A Parent’s Advent Prayer.” All of us may not have biological/step/or adopted children or grandchildren, but if you are reading this that means there are children in your circle of care in our congregation or in other places in your life. The prayer reminds us to take a child’s heart as we take this journey to Bethlehem and make room in our hearts to receive the newborn king.
A Parent’s Advent Prayer
“Dear God, I now stop what I’m doing, what I’m thinking, what I’m scrambling to plan and hustling to finish so that I can be here. Be here in the safety and warmth of your love. This love that holds me fast and keeps me centered. What I want to be a season of joy for my children so quickly becomes a season of increased expectations for me— not because they expect things, but because I do. It’s the pressure I put on myself to make things perfect, and memorable, and happy, and “special.” But, you came to me amidst darkness and stars— reminding me how darkness and light are most beautiful together. And, in that holy, mysterious and messy night, you redefined perfection, promising me that leaning into the mystery and laying down in loving awe compose the most faithful response. You tell me the best gift I can give my children this Christmas is to look with love into their eyes. To pause throughout the day to pray over them. To envelop them with arms of fierce grace when I feel most angry or annoyed. To sit in wonder for a moment (or many) and marvel at all that shaped our family this year. To give thanks and allow tears to fall and dreams to rise. To take my pilgrim band by their hands and walk together, deep into the heart of Bethlehem shining bright within our souls. This will be more than enough, because you’ve made a manger in which my heart will rest and find your heartbeat becoming mine. Amen.”
A Parent’s Advent Prayer by Ariana Braithwaite Lehn Ash and Starlight
This Sunday, we will light the candle of Love and have a Children’s Pageant to continue to prepare the way of the Lord. Let’s make a home for Christ in our hearts as we seek sanctuary in God’s love.
Looking forward to worshiping with you this Sunday.
Peace in Christ,
Chad
