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Christmas 2006

Margaret Bernhart, M.A., LMHC
President

Jesus was born, the voice of God became flesh and dwelt among us. And what the voice said was, “Console, console my people.” The consolation that God’s anger is past...the consolation that our heavenly Father has a tender affection for us in our weakness...the consolation that our sins are pardoned and “cast into the depths of the sea” (Micah 7:19).–John Piper, “Looking for the Consolation of Israel”

Dear Friends,

What is it about Christmas that captivates people from all cultures and religions? We can’t help but be transfixed by the sleepy-eyed innocence and dancing anticipation of a child whose face glows at the spectacle of glittering lights and presents under the tree. And during this season, even those less inclined to generosity awaken from their miserly ways and throw their spare change in the red kettles. For a few moments compassion and goodwill blanket the earth, silencing the starker realities of the world. This enchantment with giving and receiving gifts is embedded in our spiritual DNA. For it is memory of the deeper meaning of Christmas, when one day we will be hushed by mystery and awe that erupts into joy and laughter as we behold the Giver of all good gifts.

The beauty of John Piper’s words silences us as we behold the tender affections and merciful movement of God toward his people. For each one who is overcome by their failures and offenses, God wipes away the tears and dances with delight. For the coward caught retreating, he gently lifts the fallen face and looks past the obvious to the gold within. And for the perpetual prodigal labeled as unredeemable, God commands the sea to swallow up every last offense and toasts her with the finest of wines–the blood of a slaughtered lamb and the King of Kings.

Jesus is the trumpet of God, sounding throughout the land, “Comfort Ye My People.” Consolation lessens the grief and it is imparted to the broken and empty handed. It is a gift unwanted when entitlement clinches its fist and demands what it does not have. It is a gift ignored when deep longings remain unclaimed, because it is the ache of anticipation that opens the hand. Comfort is the gift to those who know their need, undeserving of their titles, toys or reputation. Jesus’s birth shouts of God’s compassion and his absolute understanding of what it is to live in a land that is not home and with a soul that is made for the glory of Christmas everyday. “Comfort Ye My People!”

May the hush of Christmas enliven hope and give you peace,