A postcard from Christmas Eve 12/24/21
Why Bethlehem?
Bethlehem is an ancient city and is the location of the tomb of Rachel, Jacob’s wife. It is where King David’s line begins with Boaz and Ruth. Much of the story of David’s ascension to the throne happens in and around Bethlehem. The prophet Micah identifies Bethlehem and says “from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days.” Micah 5:2
The census that Luke cites has a twofold purpose. First, it points to the oppressive power of Rome. Second, it gets Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem so that Jesus can be born in the City of David. So this ancient city continues to be a source of faith and hope. If you would like to see a modern-day journey from Jerusalem to Bethlehem, watch this short video here.
May the joy of Christmas fill your days with gladness;
A Christmas blessing by Theodore Parker Ferris
May the peace of Christmas take away your anxious care;
May the light of Christmas shine through your deepest darkness;
And may the love of him who was born on Christmas day go with you in all your ways. Amen.
Merry Christmas!
Kelley+
P.S. – Thank you again to the folks at St. Barnabas and the Church of the Messiah who worked to make our celebration of Christmas wonderful!
A sermon for Christmas Eve:
Principal text: Luke 2:1-20
Coming next
- Dec. 26 – St. Paul’s, Greensboro – 1st Sunday after Christmas
- Jan. 2 – St. Barnabas, Roanoke – 2nd Sunday after Christmas
- Jan. 9 – Messiah, Heflin – 1st Sunday after the Epiphany
- Jan. 16 – St. Paul’s Greensboro – 2nd Sunday after the Epiphany
Notoriously Episcopalian 