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| Another thought-provoking photo from my daughter, Melissa. |
Lord Christ, Wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace,
Is this an Advent test? A tortuous discussion question: How do refugees, terrorism and gun control bear upon our preparation for the coming of Christ? And vice versa? St. Paul's prayer from today's Lectionary sets a high bar:
For love that abounds,
Insight...to discern what is best,
That we may be pure and blameless before You,
Filled with the fruit of righteousness,
Bringing glory and praise to You.
(from Philippians 1:9-11)
...but there's so much fear. Our better angels are not singing sweetly o'er the plain right now. Build a wall! Buy a gun! Go to war! Those seem to be the loudest voices.
...but Charles Wesley's hymn from this morning's service rings in my ears:
Jesus, thou art all compassion,
Pure, unbounded love though art,
Visit us with thy salvation,
Enter every trembling heart.
(Love Divine, All Loves Excelling - #657, Episcopal Hymnal)
May it be so! That in trusting You, our trembling hearts find true security. Amen.
