Hi everyone,
I had a very interesting day yesterday, and it wasn’t because of the weather. I attended the CLWR Christmas dinner party. It was a really good event where we were able to hear some stories from refugees and sponsors, and meet some new people. Also, it was a potluck of sorts so there was a large feast set out full of foods from all over the world. It was pretty amazing as not only was the food really good, but seeing so many people connected to the work that CLWR has done was great and a little humbling. My heart was moved from the stories, the people, and the connections.
I am always moved when I hear about people shown that they have worth even when the world tells them different. I am touched when I see the stranger welcomed and loved. I see the face of God in this kind of community, compassion, and care for the other.
And again, it’s humbling.
Which isn’t a bad thing, as I believe it’s in humility that we can more clearly see God, more ably follow God, and more faithfully represent God in what we do. I see this in the work that CLWR does and in what we are called to be as God’s people. And, I guess to tie it in with the themes of Advent, that humility also brings joy.
Here are the readings for next week:
Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11
Psalm 126
1 Thessalonians 5:16-24
John 1:6-8, 19-28
I know, it seems like humility isn’t supposed to bring joy, but I mean in contrast to what we see in the attitudes of those sent by the Pharisees who were grilling John the baptizer about who he is and what he’s doing. It was clear that they were asking him these questions from an accusatory place. It felt like how the Pharisees would try to trap Jesus with leading questions, hoping that he’d slip up, and proving to them and those watching once and for all how it was them (the Pharisees) that have been and always will be correct.
Not exactly humble, if you asked me.
And I think we all might know people in our lives who have similar sort of attitudes. Or perhaps, we have a tendency to share in them ourselves. In my experience, pointing fingers, laying blame, and trying to prove how right you are isn’t exactly joyful. Instead, it’s a bit depressing, lonely, and isolating.
But John shows us a different way in his response to the third degree that he received. “Among you stands one whom you do not know, the one who is coming after me; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandal” is a statement full of humility. John, having close to nothing (as in no fixed address or proper wardrobe), is all about that humility. He acts out of his faith. He serves with joy, knowing who ultimately redeems, restores, and saves.
May God’s love for us all humble us and lead us into joy! Thanks be to God! Have a great week, everyone!
Picture is the logo of CLWR (Canadian Lutheran World Relief), from their website: https://www.clwr.org/