Peace on Earth and Good Will to All - Learning to Be Civil

This is my latest contribution to the Pastor's Column which appears in our local Helena newspaper (the Independent Record).

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In these days leading up to Christmas we who call ourselves Christian look ahead with anticipation to the celebration of the humble birth of the one we have come to know as the “Prince of Peace.” “Peace on Earth and Good Will to All!” was the message proclaimed by the angels. And yet, 2,000 years after that message was first heard by shepherds watching their flock by night both peace and good will often seem in short supply. In the aftermath of the recent election the news is filled with examples of blatant intolerance, hostility, incivility, anger, and hatred. Examples include Swastikas painted on walls, screaming at people perceived to be different, threats of violence, and so much more. If I'm not careful I begin to despair that simple human decency and respect are becoming endangered qualities which have fallen out of favor. But then I remember that it need not be so. It is possible to reclaim such practices. It happens one encounter at a time. 

Slow Down

In this season of Advent, which is characterized by watching, waiting, preparing, and anticipating, we are invited to slow down and pay attention to the movement of Spirit in our lives and in our world. But it is not always easy. The culture in which we live our lives is filled to overflowing with influences of a darker sort. The news is filled with stories of fear and violence, intolerance and hate, discord and upheaval. If we are not careful it is all too easy to lose our balance and our way. So, in these days which lead us to Christmas, I invite you to be intentional about making room in your life for God to take up residence. Slow down, remember to breathe, pay attention. Prepare a place in your heart for the Christ to be born.

- Pastor Roger 

(keeping my feet firmly planted in the flow)