Epitomising Christmas

Wed, 25 Dec 1996

Clergy/Leaders' Mail-list No. 339 As I pondered what to send the list on Christmas Eve, I was reminded of this response Rowland Croucher received to the sermon posted last week, "What's happened to Christmas". It is brief but I believe it conveys its own subtle challenge. No doubt many will in some way identify with what Fr John Isham writes. And I thought his Christmas morning service will somehow epitomise one aspect of the first Christmas. - Moderator ================================= Rowland, I must add a bit of cynicism, well dark humor, here... I received this post after returning from a trip to one of the local shopping malls. I went to a Christian Bookstore in the mall because it is one that is usually well stocked, even at Christmas. The store and mall are in one of Dallas' affluent (possibly 'effluent') suburbs. >Christmas is not only about something Scriptural, or historical, but >also _ experimental_. God's coming into our world and into our lives >is supposed to make a difference. > >A story I've told before: a hungry child in a city slum prayed >earnestly one Christmas for some food and toys, but nothing happened. >She related this to a cynical friend, who asked with a sneer: 'What >happened to this God of yours? Why didn't he hear and answer you?' To >which the child answered simp ly, 'Oh, I'm sure he did hear me, and >told someone to bring me a Christmas gift, but I guess they just >forgot.' > >Well...? Another aside here... I think in terms of cartoons. The image that flashed through my mind (after visiting the mall and reading your post) was of a dyslectic store owner and neophyte satanist 'giving his soul to Santa'. I am planting a new parish in a farming community, just North of Dallas. It's 50 or so miles away from my home and between services, driving, etc. I've been (understatement) busy. My Christmas morning service will be, again this year, on the streets of Dallas amongst the homeless. A few of the folk in my nascent parish will be joining me. God Bless you and yours, John + Fr. John Isham => frjisham@worldnet.att.net I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. John 13:15 ____________________________ Clergy/Leaders' Mailing List (Moderated) This mailing list is open to all Christians via Internet e-mail and most fax destinations. Submissions welcome: clergy@pastornet.net.au To unsubscribe, e-mail to: clergy-request@pastornet.net.au with SUBJECT reading UNSUBSCRIBE Copyright: Postings may be re-sent ONLY with all copyright notifications intact. A PastorNET ministry: manager@pastornet.net.au

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