Just another traveler on life’s highway hanging out in the slow lane. It’s quiet. It’s peaceful. Beyond the horizon is rest calling my name. Green pastures, still waters, my cup overflows.
“For unto us a child is born, a son is given, and the government will be upon his shoulders: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6
Emmanuel – God with us! The words of Isaiah foretelling a messiah were written many centuries before the New Testament, as we know it, was compiled from writings by the early followers of Jesus of Nazareth. But, the message could not be any clearer because the world was not that much different back then from the world we have today. Violence, oppression, intolerance, and poverty ruled the everyday lives of the commoners of the Jewish people. And they, especially the acclaimed prophets, looked to a time when peace and justice would prevail.
Put aside the busyness of the season, forget about the rush to get a holiday dinner together for family, don’t worry about all those gifts that will be returned tomorrow. Celebrate with gusto this day because it is a phenomenal event for the world. Along with the sumptuous meals and joyous festivities, remember on this day the blessings of a gracious, loving God who dwells within each of us. We can name that God whatever our tradition or conscience dictates, wherever the Spirit within leads, because on this day we have been freed from spiritual oppression and spiritual poverty through Emmanuel. God with us.
“For if the Son shall set you free, you shall be free indeed.” John 8:36
lpb quest - the twilight dance 