So, picture this: You're scrambling around looking for your glasses, only to realize they've been on top of your head the whole time. Funny, right? That's kind of like us with the Bible sometimes. We think we know it all, but there's always something new to discover if we just look a little closer. We must find a way to rediscover the Gospel and the importance of seeing familiar scriptures with fresh eyes.
I've got this quirky way of connecting with the Bible. I do it with almost anything - anime, movies, TV shows, books, and even funny papers. Ever watch or read 'Peanuts'? Since seminary, I've liked to think of Charlie Brown as Paul, Snoopy as John, and Lucy as James. It's not about making light of the stories of the disciples and their challenges but finding a way to see them in our day-to-day life. It makes it a bit more fun and reachable… at least, that’s what I like to think.
Anyhow, if there's anything I want you to consider, it's that the wonder of Christmas isn't only for children… It's also for us. After all, “For the kingdom of God belongs to such as these” (Luke 18:16). Christianity, or more precisely, Advent, isn't just for the kids. It's a time for us too, to let Christ be born in our hearts again. It's about bringing back that sense of wonder and excitement we often reserve just for the little ones.
At the center of the lesson is the idea that we must “Buckle Up and Settle with Hope!” Not settle down, but settle with hope! This season, let's try to see Christ as more than just a baby in a manger. Imagine Him as a friend, but know Him as LORD! Someone who's there even when you feel alone, someone that isn’t simply in control, but more importantly, in charge. It's not about the gifts under the tree but the love and fellowship we share.
Life's a bit like the Christmas story sometimes, isn't it? We all have our moments where we need to 'clock in' or 'get up' and do what needs to be done, just like Mary and Joseph did. See Luke 2:1-12 (NLT). And just like in the story of the shepherds, it's up to us to decide how we respond to God's call - it's not always a 'must do', sometimes it's a 'choose to do'.
And hey, let's not forget the importance of friends and family. Remember the part in 'Peanuts' where everyone helps Charlie Brown with his Christmas tree? It's a great reminder that we're not alone, and together, we can make things brighter and better.
So, as we go through Advent, let's try to find that balance in our lives. Remember, it's not just about being busy or doing everything. Sometimes, it's okay to take a step back, to unplug from the hustle and focus on what truly matters – our faith, our loved ones, and the hope that Christ brings into our lives.
I hope (not as a hopeful thinking, but hope as I way on the Lord) this gives you something to think about as we head into this beautiful season. Take care, everyone!
