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Pastor's Meditation

Pastor Marilyn Allen

 “Do not be afraid, for see – I am bringing you good news of
 great joy to all the people: to you is born this day in the city of
 David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:10-11

The good news is for “all the people” and also “to you.” We are so wrapped up in our own ways of preparing for and celebrating Christmas, that we rarely think about the many other ways people celebrate the meaning of the birth of Jesus.

In the Gospel according to Luke, the angel makes it very clear. This good news of peace on earth is not just for a small select group. It is for smelly shepherds in the fields. It is for old people like Elizabeth and Zechariah. The good news is for Mary and Joseph. It is for John the Baptist and disciples who will meet Jesus some thirty years later. The good news of God’s peace is for the whole world, for “all the people.”

On the Sundays of Advent, we will learn more about what the celebration of Jesus’ birth means in many places around the world. I hope during this time we will also observe how we ourselves are preparing to celebrate Christmas, and whether we might be more thoughtful in our preparation. That is one reason we try not to have any business or planning meetings during the month of December, so that we may focus more on the meaning of the peace of Christ.

May this time of preparation and celebration make us more available to receive the gift of peace of Christ that has been promised to us and to all the world. Pastor Marilyn Allen

Link to recent sermons by Pastor Allen