The Progressive Reverend

As we enter the final week of Advent, a bittersweet excitement wells up within me. Amid the flurry of tasks on my to-do list, I find myself craving moments of quiet worship. For me, this season of waiting is more than just tradition; it’s a sacred time for rest and reflection. Now, more than ever, it feels essential to embrace the spirit of worship during this season of hope and anticipation. I’m particularly looking forward to this year’s Christmas Eve services. The 5:00 service will be a delightful, child-friendly embrace of the classic Lessons and Carols, serving up traditional carols intertwined with interactive storytelling. It’s sure to bring a bit of joyful chaos that allows the laughter and energy of Christmas to fill the sanctuary. Reflecting on my own childhood, I cherish the memories of attending the 11:00 PM Lessons and Carols service with my family, a cherished tradition that culminated in the soft glow of candlelight as we sang “Silent Night.” Those moments wrapped in war...

This week, as we get excited for the upcoming Children's Christmas Pageant, we’re reminded that joy often shines the brightest in the simplest things. The laughter of the children, their heartfelt performances, and the pure excitement as they share the story of Christ’s birth fill our hearts with warmth. This joy doesn't rely on perfection or grand gestures; it comes from the beauty of love and anticipation in our hearts. Let’s also take a moment to reflect on Mary's joy. A young woman carrying the Savior of the world, she may have felt overwhelmed, yet she also experienced the profound joy of God's promise unfolding right within her. In the simplicity of that moment, she found incredible joy. As we prepare for our celebration, let’s think about how we, too, can find joy in life's simplest gifts. It might be in a quiet prayer, the warmth of a shared meal, or simply being present with our loved ones. Let’s ask ourselves: What joy can we find in the humble moments of ...

One thing I love about being a minister is that the craziness of Christmas comes in November. I spend most of November planning for Advent, trying to add uniqueness to the services, writing Christmas Eve services, planning Christmas events, and gearing up for pageants, parties, and decorating. By the time Advent arrives, I can finally take a breath. All my preparations are complete, and life's pace shifts to something different. Advent becomes a sacred time of anticipation, a season where we learn the value of patience and find joy in the plans I’ve spent weeks putting together. As much as the festive spirit tempts me to jump right into Christmas carols during our Sunday services, I’ve genuinely come to appreciate the essence of sabbath rest during this season. Our lives are already packed with holiday cheer—whether through social media, television, parties, or the hustle of last-minute gift buying. Do we need to add more chaos to our Sunday mornings? I’ve made a conscious effort t...