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LENTEN DEVOTIONALS

As part of our Lenten journey together as a church to Easter, we will be posting Lenten reflections and practices from a variety of sources.

To read a devotional, please click a link below.

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Covenant

Welcome to Musings! As participants in the conversations on this blog, we covenant together that we will maintain a spirit of good will, of openness to each other, and of mutual respect in our discussions; that we will listen to each other and endeavor to understand each other, especially those whose views differ from ours; and that we will remember that we are brothers and sisters in Christ.

Why Musings?

  • The Musings Page will be a place to consider thought-provoking, evocative, sometimes polemical but not overtly political, writings, quotes, ideas, and poetry on the Christian life in all its facets: spiritual, religious, ethical, and practical.

Lagniappe

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Musings

December 3, 2011

posted on December 3, 2011 by Musings

FIRST SATURDAY IN ADVENT – Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.

17Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to the emperor, or not?’ 18But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, ‘Why are you putting me to the test?’

Matthew 22: 17-18

At Christmas time we often feel trapped by conflicting obligations. With family in town, parties to attend and gifts to wrap, it seems that we are being pulled in many different directions at once. The frenetic pace can obscure our focus…the true “reason for the season.” Our time is divided instead of devoted.

When the Pharisees tried to trap Jesus, he turned the tables on them, letting them decide for themselves to whom their devotion should be directed. This lesson is all too appropriate for the Advent Season. It is easy to allow our attention to be turned to the many trappings of the holidays. And this is all right. After all, Jesus did not forbid the secular gesture, so long as it was kept in perspective. We must keep our focus, while at the same time allowing ourselves to enjoy the season. But no matter how many presents are under the tree, remember that it is God’s presence, and the birth of Jesus that we mean to celebrate. And it is truly an event that warrants a celebration. So, hang the wreaths, trim the tree and invite family and friends to join in on the joyous occasion. But as you pass the nativity, take a look at the child in the manger and give thanks, for it is through God that all things are possible. So, come, all ye faithful, the Savior reigns! Glory to the newborn King.

Read the full passage at Matthew 22:15-22

Prayer: Gracious God, As we share the Christmas season with family and friends, let us not forget to celebrate Your Presence with us.

Today’s reflection was written by Brian McWilliams who attends First Presbyterian Church, Shreveport


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