Wednesday, December 2, 2020
When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly.
Luke 19:5-6
Advent is a time for feeling a closeness to our core values as they surface to the forefront when we celebrate the birth of Jesus.
Commercialization of the holiday gains our attention. I believe, however, that Advent is an emotional period for reflection and personal renewal to be better individuals and role models.
Can you imagine this time of the year without some element of a child’s presence?
Children strengthen our resolve during this period and enhance our faith in many ways. A child’s innocence provides clarity to our vision, reminding us to practice our Christian beliefs. Are adults their mentors or are children our mentors? We help guide them toward a faith-based practice as much as they guide us. Children remind us to ask for help when needed, to simplify our approach to problems, and to be authentic in our teachings and behavior.
A church community is our home and serves as a vital foundation and welcoming environment in support of our faith journey. In Luke 19:5-6, Jesus goes to the home of the tax collector, Zacchaeus, to guide him toward the need for truth and strength of Christian behavior.
A lesson I learned in my career from young children is how often those with significant chronic diseases exhibit an adult-like strength of character. I attribute this to the everlasting support of our Christian leader. God has taught us that he will never forsake us during a time of need.
Sheila A. Pedigo