Message from the Pastor's Desk

Luke 2: 10-11 "But the angel said to them (the shepherds), 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.'" NRSV

A number of years ago someone sent me the following story written by an anonymous author that I believe will stimulate your thinking as the holiday seasons, particularly the Advent and Christmas season, begins the first Sunday in December.

A woman was Christmas shopping with her two children. After many hours of looking at row after row of toys and everything else imaginable and after hours of hearing both of her children ask for everything they saw on those toy shelves, she finally made it to the elevator with her two kids.

As she waited for the elevator to arrive, she was feeling what so many of us often feel during the holiday season - overwhelming pressure, to go to every party, taste all of the holiday food and treats, bake a lot of delicious goodies, get that perfect gift for every person on our list, and make sure we don't overlook anyone.

Finally, the elevator door opened, and there was a crowd inside. The woman then pushed her way into the elevator, dragging her two kids and all the purchases she'd made with her. When the doors closed, she couldn't take it anymore, and she said, "Whoever started this whole Christmas thing should be found, strung up and shot!"

From the back of the elevator everyone heard a calm, quiet voice respond, "Don't worry, we already crucified Him." For the rest of the trip down the elevator it was so quiet you could have heard a pin drop.

Pretty thought provoking stuff, wouldn't you say? As we approach what is often, the hectic Christmas season, let's not forget to keep the One who started this whole "Christmas thing" in our every thought, word, purchase, and deed. If we all keep our eyes fixed on Him, He'll completely change our perspective in everything we do. AND ... LET'S YOU AND I BE THE CALM, QUIET VOICE ON THE ELEVATOR.

Keep Christ in Christmas. A very Merry Christmas to all!

Yours in Christ,

Pastor George Kaden