Advent is a meaningful time of expectation and preparation. We often look for a transcendent expression of this season. Last week we had the opportunity to have a Confirmation class with two neighbouring Lutheran, and one Anglican, Confirmation groups. It was a rich ride home as I listened to questions upon questions about the incarnation and the Jesus of history. Thoughtful examinations from the minds of 12-14 year olds. These were Advent questions. These were Advent youth reaching into their own understanding for a deeper meaning. It brought back some wonderful memories of my own youth and the questions that went along with that period of life–some that have stayed with me into these later years. That is the earthy, incarnate, nature of our faith as Lutheran Christians. It really isn’t that new.
I listened to a conversation on CBC between three high school students and a mother of seven from 1968. The same timeframe that picture represents from the archives of the congregation that I now serve. It is a fascinating expression of asking the age old question: Has Christmas lost its meaning? CBC Radio suggests the question is almost as old as the season itself. Listen to it for yourself: Watching Christmas Debates http://www.cbc.ca/player/AudioMobile/Rewind/ID/2422670867/
Don’t get frustrated with the youth and young adults in your midst who are asking these sorts of questions. Thank God that they are asking them. And also remember that they are honest questions that need to be asked if we take this Season of Advent, and our faith, seriously.
Happy Advent and Merry Christmas…if it has any meaning for you:-)
I listened to a conversation on CBC between three high school students and a mother of seven from 1968. The same timeframe that picture represents from the archives of the congregation that I now serve. It is a fascinating expression of asking the age old question: Has Christmas lost its meaning? CBC Radio suggests the question is almost as old as the season itself. Listen to it for yourself: Watching Christmas Debates http://www.cbc.ca/player/AudioMobile/Rewind/ID/2422670867/
Don’t get frustrated with the youth and young adults in your midst who are asking these sorts of questions. Thank God that they are asking them. And also remember that they are honest questions that need to be asked if we take this Season of Advent, and our faith, seriously.
Happy Advent and Merry Christmas…if it has any meaning for you:-)
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