Tuesday, December 5, 2006
“Come, thou long-expected Jesus…”
WHAT “CHRISTMAS LIST” WOULD YOU MAKE FOR OUR CHURCH? WHAT DO YOU THINK GOD WANTS FOR US? Dr. John Clifford
Of course, like children waiting for Christmas, we have a hard time pausing until we can “unwrap the presents” – because there are always surprises for us, and we like to receive the unexpected gift!
If we are to find where God is leading us, we also need to be aware of our own expectations, for they shape how we do things, how we see the world, how we plan our lives. In a world of rapid change, we can become chained to the past. Abraham Lincoln said it this way: “The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate for the stormy present….”
The old ways may have worked well in their day. Are they appropriate today? We are being asked what this 21st Century asks of us if we are to be true disciples of Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Lord God, we long for your guidance and strength, but we never welcome change or new challenges. Help us see clearly where we stand so that we may look ahead with your blessing. In Jesus’ name. Amen.