Unless you live under a rock, it's difficult to not see Christ everywhere around you this week. Even among blow-up Rudolphs two stories tall , jiggling snowmen and Santas wearing sunglasses while sipping a cool one, one still sees nativity scenes of all types in front yards framed in colored lights. "Santa Baby" aside, one still hears classic songs about the coming babe even on secular channels. For a season, even in such a diverse culture as ours, it is hard not to see that for most of America, Christ still comes first this week.
During confirmation I have taught our youth that "lordship" means you accept Christ as the most important power, presence and influence in your life–second to no one and no thing. For us who claim Christ, I think it is important to witness that lordship this week to be sure, but also beyond. Christ comes first this week, next week and all weeks. This is what Jesus meant when he said to various people, "Follow me."
It will be gloriously obvious on Christmas Eve, amid the candles' glow and echoes of "Silent Night," that we do want Christ to be first in our lives. The question Jesus will ask is, "Now what about December 25, 26, 27, … ?”
Can't wait to be with you all at the starting place Saturday,
P.S. Thank you all for the cards and treats given so generously to our staff; we are full and ever so grateful for your love! Love you too!