The Cold Springer - Week of December 16th, 2018
Sunday, Dec. 16th, 2018 - Festival of Lessons & Carols
John the Baptist 2.0
And the crowds asked [John the Baptist], "What then should we do?" In reply he said to them, "Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none; and whoever has food must do likewise." Even tax collectors came to be baptized, and they asked him, "Teacher, what should we do?" He said to them, "Collect no more than the amount prescribed for you." Soldiers also asked him, "And we, what should we do?" He said to them, "Do not extort money from anyone by threats or false accusation, and be satisfied with your wages." Luke 3:10-14
Finally, a clear answer. You all know that I love Jesus, and I know that you all love him, too. But the way he answers a question can get a little tiresome. Of course, answering a question with a question - or with a parable - has provided centuries of engagement, unpacking and interpretation...it’s one of the reasons that Jesus and the Gospels that were written about him keep us coming back for more. I’m just saying that it’s nice to get a straightforward simple set of answers once in a while.
John told those who had come to see him to repent and bear good fruit: "Change your ways and bring love into the world." In the examples from this Sunday’s gospel he speaks to those who have excess clothes and food, to tax collectors and to soldiers. What he prescribes for them gives us insight into the kind of things they were doing - hoarding, stealing and extorting.
It’s a sort of trickle down exploitation, a contagion of sorts, where security is met only by selfish and unjust behavior. It leads to a culture of distrust, everyone looking over their own shoulders. To break this cycle is the responsibility of the individual (with God’s help) and it takes bravery. Braking habits is tough, especially if we fear taking a hit to our financial well-being, or to our wardrobe. How many coats do you have in your closet?
One of the reasons that people listened to John, paid him any attention at all, was that he practiced what he preached. John was one of the bravest characters in the scripture and he called on others to be brave. What makes him a true prophet is that his message is still calling us out of our comfort zones. What are the habits that keep us secure but separated from God and one another? What would John the Baptist say to you?
Teaching our kids to be brave, to make sacrifices for the sake of others, requires us to do the same. It is one of John’s most enduring traits, that he modeled courage for us, courage to prepare to encounter the living God in Jesus Christ. In some ways, it is very brave to proclaim that you would like to have regular encounters with Jesus Christ. In this season of Advent, be brave, say his name: Jesus!
Children's Chapel
We will continue to talk with our youngest children about John the Baptist and his response to our question: So, what should we do? The children will hear a paraphrase of this Sunday’s gospel passage, they will imagine themselves sharing, and they will make John the Baptist ornaments for their Christmas trees. Of course, they will continue to rehearse the songs for the pageant.
Elements of Faith
For the season of Advent our Elements of Faith class will focus on the Sunday lessons as well as begin creating an icon mural to add some orthodox flavor to our holiday decorations. Each week different elements of the mural are introduced to the class. The long story of the Incarnation unfolds in the images of Ruth, King David, John the Baptist and Joseph’s dream.
There is no Cold Springer Youth Group this Wednesday and there is Pageant Rehearsal following the 10am service.
Toy Drive Sunday
Sunday, December 16th
This Sunday we'll be gathering toys for the Family Service League. We've been doing it all through December but we wanted to have a special Sunday where our young members could bring toys in for families that are in need. So start thinking, looking, buying now and have your kids bring a present in to offer.
Family Friday - Greening of the Church
Friday, December 21st
6-8pm
St. John's Church
This will be a very fun time at St. John's. Youth and their families will join our Flower Committee to help decorate the church for Christmas. They will also put up all of the seasonal crafts that they have made through Advent. And that's just the beginning. There will also be food! Good food! Come families and help own the church this Christmas!