advent
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Preparing for the Christ Child: A Night of Celebration
Today is our final day of preparation. We know that Jesus comes in the night, a time symbolizing anticipation and divine mystery, and we sing and celebrate the One for whom we took our time to prepare. We… Continue reading
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Journey of Grace: Cleaning Away Regrets This Christmas
As we draw closer to Christmas, the time for cleaning is about done. We know the guest will arrive shortly. In looking back over this year’s season of Advent, I discovered some unexpected surprises. Some areas exposed regret… Continue reading
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A Spirit of Joy Pervades the Air
As the congregation of my church stood singing carols, I want to express my gratitude for the customs that are part of my United Methodist heritage. Recognizing these traditions helps me feel connected and thankful for the community’s shared faith… Continue reading
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How Well Do I Know My Expected Guest?
Many of us know that Advent is a time of preparation, a season to clean our spiritual house to make way for Jesus, the guest, to come into our homes. Who is this Jesus that we should take such… Continue reading
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Rejoice, My Friends!
For some, the season of Advent brings sorrow. Tragic events from the past seem to overwhelm us, much less leave us feeling anxious and ill at ease. The psalmist spoke of pain when asked to sing the music of… Continue reading
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Are We Saved by Grace or Works?
For many years, the idea of cleaning the house to prepare for the arrival of the Christ child has confused me. In short, must we “do” certain things before Jesus enters our hearts? The more profound question is, “Must… Continue reading
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The People that Walk in Darkness Have Seen a Great Light
“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light. On those living in a pitch-dark land, light has dawned.” (Is. 9:2). There is a familiar hymn whose chorus reads, “For the darkness shall turn to dawning, and the… Continue reading
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Tear Open the Heavens
“If only you would tear open the heavens and come down!” (Is. 64:1 CEB). Advent is a season that calls us into a re-examination of our faith life. What are the things that we keep in the shadows; that… Continue reading
From a Pastor's Point of View 