December 2017

Jottings...

No doubt about it – God entering the world in human form is big news. And He didn’t take the approach of showing up as a fully developed, mature human being. No, the King of creation entered our world as every human does – through the birth process. That process is at the same time wondrous and messy. Although not everyone knew the news, and not everyone liked the news (King Herod!) this entry of God into our world sparked wonder on Mary’s part, joyous celebration on the angels’ part and wise men to worship this baby.

This is something the prophet Isaiah foretold and he describes the arrival of the Promised One in different language. “The people who have walked in darkness have seen a great light.” What a wonderful way to describe God breaking into our world and into our lives! In the northern hemisphere, December is the time of the shortest days. Darkness surrounds us and we combat it with fires, candles and lights -- especially Christmas lights that for some homeowners who decorate can number in the tens of thousands of lights.

We strive to not be overcome by the physical darkness, but we don’t always recognize there is spiritual darkness and mental and emotional darkness. The gospel writer Matthew picked up on Isaiah’s prophecy and used it to describe the beginning of Jesus’ ministry: “The people who have walked in darkness have seen a great light.” When Matthew wrote that I believe that he was letting us know that the arrival of Jesus as a baby and the beginning of His ministry as an adult were part of the plan of God to deliver spiritual salvation but also to break the bond of sin and illness and weakness.

Our Advent series is titled “From Darkness to Light” and we celebrate the fullness of God’s ministry to us in sending His Son Jesus. Feeling lost and lonely? God wants to help with that. Feeling overcome by financial or health concerns? That darkness is no match for Jesus’ light! In these dark days don’t just light candles or set out decorations but join us at Cole as we move “From Darkness to Light.”

- Pastor Brian