I “settle” every day. Make compromises with myself and my world and the voices in my head: I’ll do volunteer work – but AFTER the holidays. I’ll budget more carefully – when I get these decorating projects done. I’ll call Vickie– but have to get this other stuff done first.
The biggest compromise I make with myself is that I will become politically active again in the face of a national scenario I could not have envisioned ever until three years ago. I admire the dean of St. Mark’s Cathedral in Minneapolis who puts his political opinions out there so boldly, even on Facebook.
It’s a dramatic contrast right now between the hope and beauty of the season and the likelihood that a president will be impeached. But Christmas has always played out against a desperate political backdrop – the Romans had their boot on the neck of the Jews from the moment of Jesus’ birth until they ordered his crucifixion.
Sunday I will talk about the two agitators in the lessons: John the Baptist and Mary of Nazareth. John has a crisis of faith. Mary calls for justice for the poor. And what route did Mary and Joseph take on the eighty-mile journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem? I will give you a map and show you why the trip was unbelievably treacherous, like some of our own journeys this time of year.
Between services, Craig will do a musical tour of the Magnificat. I’m pretty sure it will be exquisite! Lessons and Carols is at four but don’t compromise and skip church or the concert. The church will be beautiful and your friends will be there.
See you in church.
Barbara
