Reading: Acts 28: 23-31
Reflection: The Book of Acts ends with these words: “(Paul) lived (in Rome) two whole years at his own expense and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance.” We are just six days from the Christmas. Many folks can’t wait for the big day to come. The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads. Sugar-plums, I’m sure, have been replaced with far more expensive visions. Parents are ready to relax from all the shopping, decorating, wrapping … Merchants who have been hawking their holiday wares since before Halloween are looking forward to watching more stuff move out of their stores. Clergy…well let’s just say that December 26 is really a great day! It still amazes me that so many people who are not practicing Christians get swept up in this Christmas thing and celebrate the day along with more devout persons. Some even go to church on Christmas Eve, others celebrate Christmas without worshipping. It is so easy for some to celebrate Christmas without celebrating the Nativity of Our Lord. It is really about Emmanuel—God with us. It saddens me that so many people miss that. I encourage you in the week that is left before we begin our Christmas celebration to do two things. First, praise God for choosing to live among us. Secondly, join with St. Paul in, “proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness.” And it really isn’t all that difficult. Instead of saying “good-bye” or “see ya’” use “The Lord be with you.” That’s not too tough, is it? Maybe your friends, family or even the stranger will respond. “And also with you.” “Yea, you, too.” And even if they are dumbfounded and silent, they will be alerted that you want them to have the best Christmas ever. --Jim Bricker, Chaplain to Camp Mount Luther's Summer Staff
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