Second Sunday of Advent – “When Christmas isn’t Perfect”
When all we look at seems to prove the people’s inhumanity to other people, we need to remember the power of God that still is at work in us and others. We need to remember the God is not dead, nor doth he sleep. We need to remember that because of Christ and Christmas, we have hope.
REV. CAPT. DR. JOHN S. NILES MSM Sermon Preached at Stouffville United Church Fifth in the Series “A Christmas Carol”…
“The Ghost of Christmas Present”
In the Greek, the word “encourage” means “to call to one’s side, to comfort, to console, to strengthen, to uplift.” That is what Elizabeth was doing not only for Mary but for all of us. Christmas is about being a channel of blessing and a catalyst of hope.
Like the Ghost of Christmas past who visited Scrooge; that messenger
Gabriel sought to shed light on the events of Mary’s life and offer her God’s peace;
and to also offer God’s promise. “You have found favor with God…You will be
with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus.
The Ghost of Christmas Past – Third Week of Advent – December 12, 2021 – There was a promise of a brighter future Scrooge just as there was for
Mary and for us; but first Mary had to get past her fears.