Two weeks ago some 40 people from our parish set off “On the Way to Bethlehem”. Now before you think a secret trip to bring about world peace has been going on thru the parish - it was actually to a fantastic display in Milton. It was put together by the area Churches and was not only very well done, but it was a reminder of that first journey. Though it was a frigid evening, and some struggle along the way - that too was a testament to what it must have been like.
Each year, during the season of Advent, the Church sets off on a journey. We begin to prepare our hearts and our minds for the coming of the Christ-child, so that this time He will have a proper place to be born. We think we know the way to Bethlehem; we can find it on the map, it's not that far from Jerusalem, by today's standards; shouldn't be a problem we think to ourselves.
But the problem is that so much has changed since our last visit. A whole year has passed, a year that brought many changes in our lives, some of them good, some of them not so good, some of them heartbreaking and others maybe groundbreaking. The geographic map of life has changed, and even old familiar places and faces don't seem the same any more. So maybe we could use a little help in finding our way back to Bethlehem this year. That is, if you still want to go.
See the freedom of the Season of Advent is that we can decide if we still want to go to Bethlehem. Sure we want Christmas - who wouldn’t want the modern Christmas of today - glitter, gifts, glee, but Advent reminds us that as Disciples of the Lord the Bethlehem we are travelling toward is not always all Merry and Nice. Sure there will be moments of egg nog cheer. Yes there will be occasions of wrappings and lights. Totally the times when we will share joy will be there. But let’s not forget that in our travel, well it has to be about Him too! And if its going to be about Him - let me just say to you that Advent with its four short weeks will go F.A.S.T. and sure enough that is the way to Bethlehem - FAST
It has to be about Forgiveness. Rejoicing in the pardon and peace with only God can give, putting aside the resentment we feel, the anger we have, the hatred we sense toward others and even events since we last walked this way.
It has to be about Adoration. Rejoicing in the presence of God - taking time for prayer. Taking time to pray for an understanding of all that has happened since we were on this road a year ago.
It has to be about Surrender. Giving over the map to the Lord - letting Him set the pace, allowing Him to share the burden of the journey and provide not only the rest stops but also the thru ways.
It has to be about Tenderness. Walking with a heart that is willing to see the least, the lost, the lonely and give from our abundance - knowing that there is an old saying that is ever so true - if you want to receive a blessing - than be a blessing!
So come on, grab your Red Stocking, walk side by side with me along. We are off to Bethlehem - it won’t require a plane or a visa. It won’t require a time change or even luggage. But I promise you if you are true to it - it will go FAST
Let us make this way - Advent - the way to Bethlehem - and let’s Forgive, Adore Him, Surrender often and be Tender many times. I promise you - at the end of it all - when the angels call our name - it will be the best Manger you have ever seen !