“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 from the Father.” –John 1:14
This week we begin the advent season. It is a wonderful time when we prepare for the arrival of Christ our Lord. Advent ends with Christmas, the celebration of the birth of Jesus.
This wonderful season seems to bring out the best in so many. People want nothing more than to bless others and brighten their days. That is why a young man recently walked into the Wal-Mart store in Derby, Vermont and blessed as many people as possible.
Knowing that so many people shop at Wal-Mart for Christmas, especially for Christmas gifts this man walked up to the cashier’s desk that manages the layaways. He asked the cashier if he could pay off all of the layaway in the store. The cashier said, “Yes.” After a little bit of work, he paid off all of the layaway. There was a witness in line beyond him who witnessed this wonderful act. She asked him, “Who has the money to pay for all of this?” The man simply replied, “Santa Claus.”
The season of Advent and Christmas opens our hearts to the love of God revealed in Christ. It reminds us that love compels us to give of ourselves in order to bless others. As we begin this season of Advent I want to encourage you to remember the wonderful story of the gift of love found in the arrival of our Lord, Jesus. As we remember the story of the birth of Jesus may we give of ourselves to bless others, just as God has blessed us.
Rev. Keith King, Online Campus Pastor
