Category Archives: Advent

“Behold,” Fourth Sunday of Advent

“Behold.” The word says what it all. Underused, but colorfully trustworthy. The curtain’s been lifted. There are no strings attached. There is no agenda. The package has arrived. The fat lady just sang. The boat’s docked. The alarm went off. … Continue reading

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“Rejoice,” Third Sunday in Advent

Isaiah, “I rejoice heartily in the LORD, in my God is the joy of my soul…” St. Paul, “Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophetic utterances. Test everything; retain what is good. Brothers and sisters: Rejoice always. Pray … Continue reading

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First Sunday of Advent

“Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Be watchful! Be alert! You do not know when the time will come. It is like a man traveling abroad. He leaves home and places his servants in charge, each with his own work, and … Continue reading

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Advent Theme: “Do Your Homework”

Jesus says, “Be prepared and stay awake because we know neither the day nor the hour.” Walking home from grade school there was no backpack for me. It wasn’t invented yet for children, just for military soldiers. For me it … Continue reading

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God, Jr.

There are probably worst things in the world but that list would have to include being named after your father, as in ”Junior.” You don’t believe me?  Just think of poor Frank Sinatra,… Jr.  I can rest my case. This … Continue reading

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Scrooge: P,P&F

Pretend to be Scrooge for a few paragraphs.  Put on his heavy, black coat, sleeping cap and one faintly lit candle and seat in a dank room with a smoldering fire facing you. All right, don’t pretend; it’s not very … Continue reading

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Advent’s Inventory

Every grocery and department store knows exactly how much they have on display, in the back or awaiting arrival.  “A dollar is a dollar” and that hula hoop just doesn’t seem to be selling any longer. Advent is about collecting … Continue reading

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Advent: Joseph

The third starring character in our salvation story had the easiest job.  There were no lines to memorize or standing on marks to get the lights just right before filming begins.  Joseph just needed to be there.  He says nothing … Continue reading

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Advent: An “Act” of Wonder

The calendar tells us that the four weeks before Christmas has begun but our heart may be out of sync and we want to say Scrooge’s made up word.  You change the station when Andy sings what a “Wonderful Time … Continue reading

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Advent & Lent

The two most important Church seasons, both preparing us for two important events in Church history – the birth of Jesus and his resurrection. You don’t just stumble into glorious events in life.  There’s a preparation period or a period … Continue reading

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