Christmas decorations make us see the world differently, through the eyes of children. During Advent, the stories we read in the Bible invite us into a new way of seeing as well. Today we are talking about the stories of Mary (in Luke) and Joseph (in Matthew).
The inward vision of Mary: she responds to the personal call of God. She was open enough to hear the call of God. Then she was daring enough to say yes when God called. How open are we to hearing the call of God this Christmas season? Once we hear it, because God doesn't force it, we have the opportunity to say no. Are we daring enough to say yes when God calls? What is God calling you to this season? What about the new year?
The outward vision of Joseph: his heart is changed to not leave Mary and the child. He stays. He heard the call of God and he bound his life to the lives of those who were vulnerable. Are we hearing the outward call of God? Do we have eyes to see and ears to hear it? Why do we exist as a church if not to make room for those who've been shut out?
We exist to be a part of something bigger than ourselves. God calls each one of us individually, and all of us together as a community; are we listening?
Speaker: Aaron Vis
Scripture: Luke 1:26-38; Matthew 1:18-24
https://www.bible.com/events/49540153
