Some of us come to church on a Sunday morning because we are fortunate enough to be paid to walk with a group of amazing people, exploring God’s call to live hope, peace, joy and love in the world. Others return Sunday after Sunday because that walk of faith is part of the pattern of their lives and doing anything else just wouldn’t feel right. There are those who walk tentatively through the doors for the first time, perhaps after the birth of a child, full of the miracle of new life but also bringing questions.
Few of us come to church on a wet and dreary Sunday morning because of a dream they had had the night before--but that is exactly what happened last week! Imagine the person’s amazement, when they discovered that the focus of the service was exploring how we can be "people of the dream". As the story of the dream was shared from person to person, you could feel the energy and excitement that was generated.
What a powerful way of helping us to experience the range of emotions that Joseph felt as he grappled with his dream. A dream where he was shown a new possibility, one where he and Mary support one another in giving birth to a baby who is “God with us”.
These stories around the birth of Jesus, filled with angel song, unexpected visitors in the night and gifts beyond imagining, have influenced legends down through the ages. For me, these legends point to the way that people of faith have integrated the significance of God being born as a tiny baby, into the fabric of their lives. I invite you to read the legends of La Befana [Italy] and Babushka [Russia] and consider what message it contains for you this Christmas.
One cold dark night, a grandmotherly old woman was invited by the Magi to come with them and visit the baby Jesus. She refused because she was much too busy cleaning her house. In the morning she regretted her decision and quickly made up a basket with gifts for the child. She hurried to the stable only to find it empty. Since that day she has travelled the world, peering into each child’s face, seeking Jesus. At Christmas time she leaves gifts for every child, always hoping that one of them will be the Christ child.
This coming Sunday we will be hearing the birth stories of Jesus through music and carols and hearing some more of those legends that speak to the meaning of Christmas in our lives. See you at 10:00am as the Noël Instrumental Ensemb’ play Christmas music before the service begins.
Blessings, Karen
P.S. To support our Inter-Faith Lunch Program this Christmas, please bring in gifts of new, warm socks and movie passes. Thank you.
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