Third Sunday of Advent, December 11, 2022
Rev. Sela Finau
Birthday Celebration
Scripture: Matthew 25:40-45 (NRSV) And the king will answer them, “Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” Then he will say to those at his left hand, “You that are accursed, depart from me into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels;for I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not give me clothing, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.” Then they also will answer, “Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not take care of you?” Then he will answer them, “Truly I tell you, just as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.”
Devotion: How do you feel about Christmas? What do you think about this holiday? Do you love everything about it? What parts do you detest? Let’s say it’s your birthday, and many people celebrate you. How would you want people to celebrate your special day? It makes me think of how Jesus may wish us to honor him.
Many of us do much preparation. We worry about getting things done in time for Christmas and do everything we can to make things work for family and friends this season. But what does Jesus want? What does God want from us? Our Scripture may give us some clues.
We could broaden our view of Christmas from self-centeredness to focusing on those whom we easily overlook. Some of those people are within our own families, yet, many more are in our communities and beyond. This Christmas, we can all consider helping someone we know or giving to a charity that supports those in need, whether people or animals.
Prayer: Lord, Thank you for allowing me to participate in your birthday celebration. Please help me take the focus off myself and place it on those you want me to help. In Your name, I pray, Amen.
AΩ
Hits: 5
