What Shall We Do?

Last Sunday, I preached about how John the Baptist is the “Advent prophet” preparing the way of the Lord.  Calling us to make straight paths, smooth roads, and direct routes to our hearts.  He reminds us that it’s “never an engineering problem” but always one of the will.  This Sunday, we hear how crowds came to him, looking for a new way, coming to him to make a “clean start” (baptism of repentance).  He calls them to change and “bear the fruits” of that change.  And they ask, “What then shall we do?” (Luke 3:7-18).

            His advice is perfect for Christmas!  “If you have two coats give one away… don’t be greedy… don’t exploit people.”  Basically, John is saying that the “fruits of repentance” are those concrete acts of giving ourselves away in generosity to those in need.  That sounds like all those charitable appeals this time of year.  At St. Matthew’s that sounds like contributing to the “Baby Shower for Jesus”—diapers and things for new moms and newborns.  Contributing coats, socks, warm stuff that make their way to shelters and food pantries (like St. Mary’s and Grace Crossing).  Getting gifts for the kids in Gemma services, kids in their residential and other programs.  Donating to the Chester County Food Bank (the Thanksgiving Service (11/25) and Pre-School collected over 400 pounds of food!).  There are SO MANY ways to concretely give and make a difference at this time of year.  It feels good to give!  My advice is, find what matters to you, and that helps others, and give to it.

            John’s call isn’t just about a one-time thing, though.  Yes, Christmas comes once a year, but Jesus’ birth suffuses ALL of life with God’s humble love.  That’s John’s point; he’s calling us to prepare for the LIFE found in an ongoing relationship with Christ.  Historically, December is the biggest month of giving for the church—THANK YOU for your generosity!  I know giving to “keep the lights on” and shrink a forecast deficit isn’t as rewarding as something that has an immediate and direct impact, but as any non-profit will tell you, a little extra goes a long way.  Thank you for all the ways you are bearing the “fruits of the Spirit.”

Peace,

Pr. Christian