Let us be inspired by the belief that God has called us to actively work to overcome the social injustices of our time and in our communities.
Let us take heart knowing that the work – our work – to overcome injustice is an ongoing work worthy of our time, our talents, and our treasures.
Why? Because everyone needs to hear, know, and believe that (repeat after me): God made me. God loves me. God has plans for me.
In Leviticus 26:12, God says "And I will walk among you, and I will be your God, and you shall be my people." Through Jesus 2,000 years ago, and through the words and actions we share with each other today, God does walk among us. The Creator of the Universe is our God – our creator, and we are His people. And that my friends is the Good News of the Christmas season!
Read MoreToday’s reading talks about the events just before the birth of Jesus. But twice in today’s chapter, the original author avoided the common Hebrew word for birth; instead, he used the word genesis which is an overt connection to the original Genesis – the story of God creating something dramatically new.
Today’s story is about God creating not just a baby, but a whole new way for humanity to be in relationship with God.
People learn by asking questions. But sometimes we may feel too shy or embarrassed to ask a question (or several!) because we wonder if we’re the only person who doesn’t know the answer. We don’t want to look foolish, ignorant, or like we’re not fully committed to a cause or belief system. But in today’s reading, John the Baptist shows us that it’s good to ask questions – especially tough questions about our faith. Those questions can lead us to seeing God’s presence in our lives.
Read MoreAdvent is a time for reflecting… for reprioritizing… for repenting, redirecting… all of which prepares us for greater intimacy with God and an increased capacity to receive the new and unexpected gifts God has prepared for us.
Advent matters because WE matter – each one of us. Our lives and our relationships with God and each other matters. And through these relationships, we can anxiously anticipate God birthing something wonderfully new into our lives.
When we work together to share God’s love, we become beacons of joy, peace, and hope for our entire community. With John as our model, let’s share that hope for the future, that anticipation of new possibilities, with people who need to see and hear it.
Read MoreToday’s story challenges us in several ways.
1) What do each of us need to rise above and push through to see God?
2) As you look for God’s presence this week, listen for God to call out to you.
3) How can you share your different wealths in ways that bless other people and glorifies God?
God persistently loves us. God created us to be in relationship with Him and prayer keeps us in communication with Her. Where do you need to persistently seek justice? Where do you have opportunities to help others receive justice?
Read MoreSusanville United Methodist Church
60 South Lassen St, Susanville, CA 96130
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Susanville United Methodist Church is a California tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, EIN 94-2988437.
