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| Pastor Steve Easterday-McPadden and New Member |
Five of us joining was not a big deal for the congregation, which welcomes new members frequently, and cordially for all that. For me it was the high point. When asked, I renewed my promises to fight the forces of wickedness and oppression and to support this congregation with my prayers, presence, gifts, service and public witness of my faith in Jesus Christ.
That last one, public witnessing, has been added to the promises since I was confirmed at age 12.
Since sharing one's faith is consistent with Jesus's teachings, I'm not objecting, but sharing one's faith is confronting. It's like sharing the Landmark Forum, a good movie, or a favorite recipe, or coming out as a gay person. Sometimes you want to keep things to yourself, personal, private, shy-like. Even if you think your actions speak louder than words, times are you need to speak out.
So, I want to publicly state that by God's grace, in my heart and by my word I am a Christian.
Which is where today's sermon hit the nail on the head.
Pastor Steve has started a sermon series for November based on The Advent Conspiracy. This week's introduction, "Christmas and the Religion of Consumerism," weighed heavily on the congregation, not much of the usual laughing in recognition or good-natured "Amens." The scripture, Exodus 20:1-6, the beginning of the Ten Commandments, which our children have been studying, begins with God's injunction to worship God only and not gods of our own making.
Pastor Steve suggested that the fastest growing "religion" in the world is represented not by a cross and flame or a star and crescent, but with a dollar sign $$$$$. He hinted that throughout November we would consider what Christmas would be like if we spent less and gave more. He mentioned that the religion of consumerism is based on dissatisfaction, that we always need more, more, more. More, better and different. The latest style, model or upgrade. My interpretation: There is no satisfaction in stuff. At best we feel a fleeting gratification. Who remembers what they got for Christmas ten years ago? Or last Christmas, for that matter?
Pastor Steve was hoping to get a jump on this before we get to Advent at the end of November. However, I have to admit that I've already bought most of my Christmas presents. You will never find me in that 5 a.m. crush the day after Thanksgiving we call Black Friday for good reason.
This notion of sharing with the poor rather than spending on riotous celebration is a pendulum that has swung throughout Christian history. Relatively recently, the Puritans, for example, who some look to as the founders of our country, righteously refused to celebrate Christmas with its pagan roots. On the other hand, why should pagans have all the fun? Celebration is great! Music and dancing and giving of gifts is fun! Generosity is a Christian virtue. I try to select gifts that will bring delight to the recipient, and I'm mindful of it all year long.
But: Does my family need more stuff? Do I need more stuff?
What would make me happier--to have all my family join me for Christmas Eve at church, including my far-off mom and brothers, my daughters and their mates, my in-laws, my former husband and his wife and the step-children and Kazen, my grandson Rylan and my godson Christian? Or--you know, a pile of presents, more than I could open in one sitting?
Busted. Again.
So, Pastor Steve, I am willing to consider what it would be like to focus the holiday around Jesus, giving where He would give, participating in celebrations that nourish the soul, but bear in mind I've already bought presents and will be a little preoccupied in getting them wrapped and shipped. I will sing in the choir.
A Soul Christmas.
Maybe it could be satisfying. Maybe even Merry!