Dear Caldwell,
As we travel from Sunday to Sunday, we continue to focus on preparing the way for Christ to enter/reenter our world and our hearts. We proclaim “Behold” because it is good news but news that also calls us to look inward and outward.
Last Sunday, via Facebook worship, we listened to the words of Malachi, a Hebrew priest. He spoke of a refining fire that burns away that which is impure, in the world and within us, that our relationship with God is true. This Sunday, we hear John the Baptist predict the coming of Christ as the messiah, who will sift through us with a “winnowing fork” to separate the pure from the impure. (Scripture is Luke 3:7-18.)
On its face, this might not sound like Christmas cheer and joy – but I believe it is. Whose hand is on the “winnowing fork” or the purifying fire? Christ, who died for us, God’s ultimate demonstration of grace and forgiveness. God’s ultimate preparation for us to live lives in advancing justice.
On Sunday, we light the Joy candle. Can there be joy in knowing we are called to submit ourselves for review by a gracious and just God? Perhaps the question really is, can there be joy without it?
Who do we think we are fooling, after all?
Watch for details about all of life Caldwell in Caldwell This Week.
In Christ, John