General Presbyter Jacquelyn Taylor

I was picking up my daughter from an overnight teen "lock-in" at First Presbyterian Church of Howard County when I noticed several signs for churches, posted around an office complex.  I had not seen the signs during the week, so I imagined they were advertising ministries that met for worship in one of the many office spaces.  I began to wonder; would those signs entice me to visit their church?

In Matthew's birth story, we have a sign.  Imagine a huge bright star in the sky, one the likes of one never seen before.  Would you follow it?  Or would you look up and say "look at that bright star!"  In Luke, the birth story of Christ begins with ordinary people doing what they do.  But it wasn't until the angel made a stunning announcement that folks started moving toward Bethlehem.  Sure, many people come to service on Christmas Eve, because it's the right thing to do in our society, so a sign would be appropriate, but what about after that? 

What is your announcement of the coming of Emmanuel, God with us?  Is it in the form of an announcement in the paper, or a website or a sign on the lawn?  What if it is visible in a changed life, a kindness, a peaceful disposition.  Can people driving down the road of life see your "hands and feet" doing the work of God in the world? Or perhaps they are welcomed - just as they are -  inside of your building and not made to feel like second class citizens.

This year I have visited many of our congregations and seen Jesus in your worship, your hospitality, your warm welcome and your commitment to your communities.  My prayer is that your announcement is so glorious, your star, so bright, that others may want to come and see, not only on Christmas Eve, but everyday!

 

Merry Christmas, Presbytery of Baltimore!  And may Christ enter your churches, your hearts and your lives!

Jackie