A GREAT LIGHT, MUST BE ITALIAN
It was a dual celebration, Charles Wesley’s Birthday (see yesterday) and a Christmas party. There was a “white elephant” gift which Balthazar won. “It’s a major award!” he shouted and managed to hold onto it through the game. They sang Charles’s hymns and had a joyous night. Later that night, after what may or may not have been too much egg nog for a family devotional, Balthazar was found sleeping it off under a strange lamp. “Wake up, Balthazar! What are you doing?” cried Melchior. “Looking for my white elephant gift. I lost it.” said Balthazar. “Where did you lose it?” asked a helpful Caspar. “Over behind my tent beside the camels.” said Balthazar. “Then why are you looking here?” said Melchior. “The Light’s better here.”
WESLEY’S QUESTION: Do I insist on doing something about which my conscience is uneasy?
SCRIPTURE: “Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light.” See then that you walk [e]circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord. (Ephesians 5:14-19) See also Isaiah 9:1-2, Luke 21:34
FOOLISH WISDOM: The Christmas season often becomes a time when excessive partying and drinking is the order of the day. Many companies plan a Christmas party for their employees. We want to share in these festive moments, have fun with colleagues, and relax with those with whom we work. Yet, the temptation to drink excessively is all too real. The intoxicated mind becomes tragically blurred to the mystery of the coming Christ child and keeps us from fully seeing his wonder and glory. (Trevor Hudson, Pauses for Advent)
MUSIC SELECTION:
The Holly and the Ivy arranged by Gwyneth Walker
© 2020 Birnamwood Publications
Laura Hesse, piano