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Members of the Parish,
What a Difference the Son Can Make
It was morning in late November. The sun, low in the horizon facing me, was barely perceptible. It was hidden behind thick, grey clouds. The sights of nature in the surrounding woods were shades of grey and brown. Trees, twigs, shrubs, and a thick brown leaf cover beneath, were all drab and lifeless.
Suddenly the sun broke through one of the rare cloud openings. What a change! Countless twigs and branches were now outlined in silver. The edges of the tree trunks were boldly outlined as well. Here was light and brightness and transformation. Objects barely noticed before were now plain to the eye. Even the masses of the leaf cover now looked like gold foil.
One of the greatest symbols of Christmas is the star that foretold and guided the wise men to find the new baby king of the Jews. But it is not the star which brings light and definition to our world. It is the son, Jesus Christ. The wise men didn’t give gold, frankincense and myrrh to the star but to the greater light – the son.
For many, it is the get-togethers, the decorations, the giving and receiving of presents, and the traditions which bring a special flavor to the season. Beyond this is the greater light, far more powerful. It is Christ who points to a meaning far beyond ourselves, awakening in us an expectation of gifts, only available through Him.* Without this babe in Bethlehem and what He brings, the most over-the-top celebrations will be grey and brown in comparison.
This season, may the various trappings of Christmas be available to you. More importantly, may you experience more- - that which is only made possible through Christ, who first came to us in Bethlehem.
In Christ,
The Reverend David L. Hess
*And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld his glory, glory as of the only Son of the Father.
John 1: 14 (RSV)
