Advent Readings & Ideas

As I was reviewing content for the Lent-Easter blog, this film surfaced, and I thought I’d include it as the final posting before Advent 2009:

There aren’t many portrayals of the Gospel in movies that are positive toward Christians or Christ. But this one - What Would Jesus Buy? - delves beneath the surface as it documents the quest of “Rev. Billy and the Stop Shopping Choir.” It goes by very quickly for 91 minutes.

This troop of performers has chosen a theme and developed it in a manner to capture the attention of the public, as they campaign against the idolatry of consumerism. Its message is so relevant now. And the ticket price is absolutely right - zero deenero, nada. So make your own snacks and settle down in front of your computer for some smiles.

What Would Jesus Buy?

Today the Nativity is observed in Eastern Orthodox communities, many of which do not speak English. But the images are so beautiful in this video that I want to share it with you anyway - Christ transcends all the earthly stuff.

What is the Epiphany? Webster’s defines it this way:

a Christian festival, celebrated on January 6, in commemoration of the appearance of Christ to the gentiles (the wise men of the East).

This day marks the end of the 12 days of Christmas. And Scriptures for the day are:

Isaiah 60:1-6
Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14
Ephesians 3:1-12
Matthew 2:1-12

Almighty God, who hast poured upon us the new light of thine incarnate Word: Grant that the same light, enkindled in our hearts, may shine forth in our lives; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.
Amen.

Can it be that things are back to usual so soon? Are we programmed to continually be moving on to the next thing? What will the world be like in 2009? Has this Christmas made a difference for you? I’m asking these questions for myself also.

Advent begins again on 29 November 2009.

I’m wondering if you got what you wanted for Christmas. Did you have a Christmas wish? I’m glad it’s finally here, and yet if we were to look at it another way. . .

Of course, nobody wants to have a Charlie Brown Christmas, but one of the most adorable and catchy tunes of the season is attached to the Peanuts TV special — Christmas Time is Here.

Winter has only just begun and this year, we have had severe snow and ice in many parts of America. Get some extra kid activity ideas to help you keep your composure during school vacation times.

A Very Merry Christmas to You!

Voices resound worldwide with the greetings of the Season - Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukah! Gifts are unwrapped. Thank you’s are exchanged and lovingly prepared delicacies will be shared from Christmas throughout Christmas day.

For many Christians, the midnight mass from the Vatican is the event that marks their observance. Other believers gather in local congregations to sing carols and listen to the recurring story of the Christ child’s birth. There are many television programs that in some manner acknowledge the significance of the day. And with all of it, music sets the atmosphere.

The wonder of a child, a very special child. And working people were the first to receive the good news of great joy.

Happy, Happy Holiday!