I actually got caught up, by listening to the Bible on tape while I drove to and from Fargo today. I visited a church member in the hospital, and then did a little sandbagging in Moorhead before heading back to DL. Flood preparation seems to be going well there – there were lots of college and high school students, and others, out volunteering. It feels good to see all those people out helping out, when many of their homes are probably not directly endangered.
Listening to Deuteronomy as I drove, I realized that that’s the vision of community that God has for the people of Israel. People helping people, especially helping people in need; people looking out for their neighbors; people putting the good of others ahead of their own comfort or enrichment. We haven’t had enough of that in our nation lately.
I have been so encouraged lately. Encouraged by so many wonderful people at Grace. Encouraged by reading God’s word. Encouraged by prayer. Encouraged by my wonderful family. Here is what I am starting to learn: I think sometimes I get so busy and stressed out, that I get lost in all the little things I have to do; important as those things are, stepping back to pray and meditate, to exercise body, mind, and spirit, to get a wider view of life and our callings, are more important, because they are what gives us the energy and wisdom to do, not all things, but the things that are most important to do now, the things God wants us to do. And, please do not misunderstand what I wrote last week about going through challenging times: though we never wish for them, challenges help us learn and grow. For example, my seminary courses have been challenging and a little stressful, but it’s good stress, good challenge, because (I hope!) it helps me to be a better preacher and pastor. I wouldn’t want to do without them. I think I’ve recently gone through challenging times, but in retrospect, I am thankful for it. It has helped me to grow. Sometimes, challenges in our lives are wake up calls to faith, hope, and love.
Luke 2:1-20
Here is the Christmas story in Luke! Isn’t it wonderful that some of the first people to meet the infant Jesus were poor shepherds?
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