Following the Star

Pause

O holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to us, we pray. / Cast out our sin and enter in. Be born in us today! / We hear the Christmas angels, the great glad tidings tell. / O come to us, abide with us, our Lord, Emmanuel.

from “O Little Town of Bethlehem” by Phillips Brooks (1868)

Listen

Don’t complain about each other, brothers and sisters, so that you won’t be judged. Look! The judge is standing at the door!

Brothers and sisters, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord as an example of patient resolve and steadfastness.

James 5:9-10

Think

Our Advent journey is made much more beautiful and meaningful by the music shared along the way. We journey from quietly beckoning Emmanuel to come to the triumphant proclamation of the heavenly host: “Glory to the new born king!”

And while these songs may be lovingly and genuinely performed by individuals, the harmony of a choir, congregation, or family together offers the deepest joy. Each participant patiently relies on their partners to complete the sound. How difficult it would be to make such glorious melodies if each one did not find the humility to put differences aside and lean into the goal of honoring the anticipated Savior.

Patience is difficult when waiting on something so special. Perhaps it is even more taxing when it comes to dealing with others around the holidays. Yet, finding the harmonious balance with others will bring more joy to all involved this Christmas season.

How can you use patience, like prophets did in the days of old, to find harmony with others, leaving room for the true joy God provides?

Daniel Potter

Pray

You have given us the example of the joy harmony provides, God, in the gift of music this Advent season. Remind me in difficult moments or situations that your love and joy grow when shared. And give me patience to work for that joy as I wait for your son. Come, Lord Jesus. Amen.

Go

Jesus is coming.

Our Savior is nigh.

Yearn for that gift,

and welcome its light.

Amen.