Most of us have heard mothers — dads too — cooing to their babies and speaking in a tone and pitch of voice they’d never use with anyone else. They talk for the baby’s ears only. Fine. We get it. But have you ever eavesdropped on adults speaking this way to their spouse, lover or special friend? Would it freak you out? Yet, some psychologists say that such conversations are signs of healthy relationships. This brings us to our epistle text where Paul is tired of babbling baby talk to adults.

Many people have a nagging suspicion that technology consumes too much of their time. It’s a master, not a servant. We want to be smart about how we use our smartphones. Paul faces a similar, although not identical, dilemma. He wants to stay true to his core values, and remember what he is all about. He decides that true wisdom is centered in Jesus Christ, crucified and risen. through what could esily be called the Smart Cross.

Friends during the Lenten Season this year I will be preaching on the book "The Walk: Five Essential Practices of the Christian Life" by Rev. Adam Hamilton. Lent is a time to turn away from thiose things that keep us from God and work to develop a closer relationship with Christ. Having spiritual practices helps us refocus our hearts and minds to do the work God calls us to do in the world today. Hope you will join in listening to this timely series.

Those blue handicapped signs you see painted on the asphalt at the shopping mall or grocery store alert us to the fact that those parking spaces are reserved for those with mobility issues. But now, the handicapped sign is getting a makeover. This reminds us of the importance of logos, signs and symbols. Followers of Christ have an important sign. Does it, too, need a makeover? Or simply a reminder of its meaning and the power of it?

In spite of the the biblical call for the church to live in harmony, the church since it began has quarreled and fussed. It seems like nothing has changed. Is the unity of the church a pipedream? Maybe. But an interesting movement in the church right now gives new hope. It’s a movement the core piece of which is — food! What a concept! It’s amazing what disciples of Jesus can agree to when they’re eating.

If you need a place to crash, and you’re tired of paying high hotel prices, and honestly, you only need a place to rest, no problem. You can check into a hostel, or better, rent a room or house through a sharing website. The most well-known is Airbnb. Using our imagination, it almost seems as though Jesus has booked such a place. He tells Andrew, “Come and see.”

Businesses know the value of having a mission statement. Lately people have begun to find the value in having their own personal mission statement. These brief statements help provide clarity and focus for one's life. In Isaiah 42:1-9, we are given a glimpse of the mission of the Suffering Servant, a mission picked up by Jesus, passed on to the disciples and then to each of us. So ask yourself, "What is my why?"

When we have our Chirstmas pageants, we read the story, but often forget the part about Herod looking to not have Christ there anymore. We need to keep Christ in Christmas and not let the Herods of this world take him out. 

Are you ready to join the song of Christmas? Shouting Peace on earth and good will to all? We are called like the shepherds to share the joy of that night but not just for one night. We should share the joy of Christ every night and day of our lives. 

Last in Advent series sermons on the book Almost Christmas