Fringe - Storm

A Super Savior

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Following Christ

This is the time of year when many are making resolutions (diet, exercise, read the Bible, etc.). But, why do our good intentions seldom work? Could it be that we try to manage our lives, control outcomes and just "try harder" too much? Are we neglecting our most basic human need? We can't save, rescue or champion ourselves. We need a "Savior" for that, Jesus! As we stand on the brink of a new year and new decade, a time when many focus on resolutions and newness, I must Preach Jesus in 2010. A "Savior" is what we need! Let's explore together.

"What do you want?" This is a long-time heralded Christmas question. But, how will you respond? We are challenged today by Luke's account of the dedication of Jesus at the Temple. Jesus' encounters with Simeon and Anna at the temple have the potential to reshape our Christmas quest. Like Simeon of old, will we recognize what confronts us, face to face with Jesus? Are we ready to see? Come, and see Jesus and be shaped by the beauty of what is before your very eyes!

Do you remember receiving the "perfect gift" at Christmas? There seems to exist unspoken pressure at Christmas to give the "perfect gifts." Many of us will search long and far to find just the right gift. But ... what if we decided to "go the distance" toward Jesus this year, might this render a different kind of gift? We will reconnect with the ancient story of the wise men/Magi traveling a great distance to bring gifts (Matt. 2:1-12). This Christmas, might we reenter the story to discover a new methodology to "give more."

Exchanging gifts has been a time honored tradition at Christmas. But, has this become the center of Christmas? How much is too much? When does Christmas become excessive? And, how has American consumerism played a role in this? If Christmas has become any less authentic, the story of Joseph (Matt. 1:18-25) may help us recover true Christmas tradition once again. Let's reenter the story.

"What do you want?" This is a question we ask every year at Christmas. But, what does this question say about how we celebrate Christmas? Let's reenter the Christmas story again. Our hearts are formed by what we worship. How might the familiar Christmas story cause us to reconsider: "What do you want?"

Thanksgiving and "Black Friday" lead us into the Christmas season. But, what does a day like "Black Friday" say about how we celebrate Christmas? Let's consider what it might mean for us to reframe the Christmas season this year.