Constellations of Wonder: Our Hope

“Star of wonder, star of night, Guide us to thy perfect light…”  As we eagerly await Christmas, look up to the stars. Get lost in the wonder and pray to the One who created them. Each day in Advent, enjoy a reflection from a Saint Luke friend, as they too look up to the sky and ponder the names used in the Bible for Jesus. May their reflections be a gift to you this Christmas as we seek God together. 

Today’s reflection is from Morgan Miller.

OUR HOPE

“Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope…”- 1 Timothy 1:1

The word “Hope” brings images of positive promises but usually stems from the backbone of doubt or fear.

We don’t hope because we know. We hope because we don’t know.

 

There are daily unknowns and uncertainties, but we have the choice to add hope into our lives.  If there was no hope we would be entirely stuck – awaiting the next worry or anxiety and going nowhere, fast.

But then enters Jesus our Hope.

Hope, is a form of faith in motion. For someone who has a hard time sitting still, I love motion. Jesus provides us this forward momentum. With hope we don't have to dwell on the past, ruminate on negative people or experiences, and we don’t have to remain stationary. Mary and Joseph had hope in their hearts, which carried them through to Bethlehem.  Assurance of faith, hope, and love drive the Christmas Story; from the shepherds, to the wisemen, to the angels.

Jesus is hope in things unknown.  He provides forward physical motion along our journey, or positive change of perspective, along our journey. What an amazing God who is always there no matter where we are. This ability to take up hope in our crazy world is a comfort to hold on to.

So during this advent season of waiting and preparing our hearts and minds for Jesus, I meditate on all the things I hope for in this world; what I hope for in my life, for my relationships with loved ones, and peace of the world. I don’t have a certainty and I don’t know the outcome, but I will choose to have Hope propelling me forward, with Jesus in my heart.

Dear God, during this Advent season allow us to rely on Jesus our Hope, to keep our faith in motion, so we can treat each circumstance and each person we encounter with hope and love.  Trusting in God, Amen.

Constellations of Wonder: Son of Man

The contemplation of the stars was the noblest of all sciences for the ancients. The result of their study of the night sky was to see clusters of stars as images, and then tell a story about that animal or person as the constellation moved across the night sky. For us, the contemplation of the Bible is a noble task. Contemplating the people and stories that have come down to us from our spiritual ancestors is gratifying as they chart the work of God across the ages. 

This Advent at Saint Luke, we the gazers of 2022, contemplate the names used in the Bible for Jesus. We will gaze upon the texts and share our insights about what we see.  Just as with constellations, as we share our reflections, questions, and thoughts with one another, our light shines brighter and we see things that we never would have discovered on our own. Join us as we cast our Advent journey to Christmas in a new and rewarding light. 

Today’s reflection is from Monica Staniz. She came to Saint Luke Lutheran Church eleven years ago when my husband, Matthew, began as the Youth and Family Pastor.  Every Sunday the congregation states, “All are welcome, no exceptions” and she shared that they are true examples of this love. She is included in the Christmas Pageants, Mission Trip to Tanzania, Egg Hunt, Kidtober Fest, Empty Nesters Group, Bingo Nights, raffle gift bags, LGBTQIA+ forum, and she teaches Confirmation. Monica shared, “Saint Luke has given my family many ways to give back for all the blessings we have been given. “

SON OF MAN

““For the Son of Man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.”- Luke 19:10

There are many names we can call Jesus- King of Kings, Savior, and Son of God are just a few. But the name “Son of God” resonates the most to me. Jesus was born, so he knows how humans live, breathe, and die. He was able to see, smell, touch, taste and hear- just like us. He worked hard to bring people to God’s unfailing love. We need to do the same. 

Holidays are a hard time. Remember that when you are struggling, lost, confused, or even when your life is joyful, Jesus is always by your side. He lived so that we can live and be saved. He was human, as are we. He has shown us how we ought to treat others so we all can enjoy the unconditional love of God.

You are the Son of Man and you know how I feel. 

When I sing to you, I sing loud. 

When I speak of you, I speak proud.

Because you are the Son of Man, and you know how I feel.

When the cold settles into my bones,

When the warm sun begs for ice cream cones,

You are the Son of Man, and you know how I feel.

When I hear a newborn baby cry,

When a loved one has to say goodbye,

You are the Son of Man, and you know how I feel.

When I see the compassion of my friends,

When the love of family never ends,

You are the Son of Man, and you know how I feel.

When I pray and bow my head,

When I think of the blood you shed,

You are the Son of Man, and You know how I feel.

When I receive your body and your blood, 

I know that I am truly loved.

You are the Son of Man, and you know how I feel.

 Dear Jesus, thank you for living as a human and understanding the struggles, joys, and feelings I experience. This is a hard time of year, and I miss those that have passed and are with you in Heaven. Help me to always be thankful for what I have because of what you have done for me. Please help me to stay strong. Be with me as I help those that are lost and show them your unfailing love. May this next year be filled with the love of family and friends. Help me to remember that you are always with me.

Constellations of Wonder: Great High Priest

“Oh holy night, the stars are brightly shining…”  Just as the wise men looked to the stars many Christmases ago, we too seek a bright star to guide us in our celebration of Jesus’ birth. Throughout the season of Advent, we are sharing daily reflections from the people of Saint Luke to help brighten our paths. Our daily writers offer to us their reflections on the various names used for Jesus in the Bible. Together their stars form a constellation of wonder that can fill us with hope, love, peace and joy as we journey towards Christmas.

Today’s reflection is from Em and Carrie Johnston. They have been members and called Saint Luke their church home since the spring of 2016. They were blessed to have been married here in 2021. They look forward to getting more involved!

GREAT HIGH PRIEST

“Since, then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession.” - Hebrews 4:14

The great high priest, Jesus, who came to earth born as the weakest and lowly of them all. Born to save us- the broken, the sinful- born to love us, born to sympathize with our weaknesses. He was not always seen as the great high priest- for he was like one of us, human. Yet, he was much more than human- he survived great temptation, condemnation, rose from the dead- all for us. He is our great high priest, for He loves us unconditionally, is with us always, and saves us through His grace.

 Thank you for this beautiful day you have provided us. Thank you for the grace you show us everyday. Help us to love others as you love us, be with those in need, and show others your grace. Amen.

Constellations of Wonder: Messiah

“Star of wonder, star of night, Guide us to thy perfect light…”  As we eagerly await Christmas, look up to the stars. Get lost in the wonder and pray to the One who created them. Each day in Advent, enjoy a reflection from a Saint Luke friend, as they too look up to the sky and ponder the names used in the Bible for Jesus. May their reflections be a gift to you this Christmas as we seek God together. 

Today’s reflection is from Claire Luce. Claire along with her late husband, Steve, and then toddler, Emily became members of Saint Luke in late 2002. Through some very happy times and unbelievable heartache Saint Luke has been a constant. She has been involved in Sunday/Vacation Bible School, Stephen Ministries, Welcome Center to name a few. Claire feels truly blessed to be a part of the Saint Luke family.

MESSIAH

“He first found his own brother Simon and said to him, 'We have found the Messiah' (which means Christ.)” -John 1:41

In the 1st chapter of John, we read that Jesus has recruited two disciples.  John is very user-friendly to his readers as he takes the time to explain Jewish customs and vernacular.  He translates "Messiah" into the "Anointed One."  John and Andrew are charged with the mission of following Jesus, to whom Andrew's brother, Simon, then meets.

I am intrigued by the idea of "meeting" Jesus.  I believe in prayer, have witnessed what I believe to be miracles and feel that I have a deep sense of faith.  However, I struggle with the one-sided relationship I believe I have with the Messiah.  I have heard countless stories of God-sightings, conversations with our Lord, people stating that they have felt Jesus' presence. 

I have never had what I consider a conversation with Jesus.  Never saw him with my own eyes, heard his voice, broke bread with him.  Yet, I believe.  I believe in Jesus Christ our Lord, the true Messiah.  My relationship exists on hearsay, both written and preached.  It is unlike any relationship I have ever had, yet it is real, comforting, enriching and daunting.  It is challenging and often frustrating.  I have questions that go unanswered.  Why does He come to others in dreams?  Why can I not "feel" the presence of the Messiah?  The simple answer:  faith.  It defies logic and my humble understanding, but I believe.  In my own way, I meet the Messiah every day.  Thanks be to God!

  Dear God,  Thank you for sending your only son, Jesus, to our lives and all of the lives that have gone before.  By his precious blood a sinner such as I am saved and, though unworthy, am welcomed into Your eternal kingdom.  Praise your name and praise Jesus, in Whose name I faithfully pray.  Amen

Constellations of Wonder: Head of the Church

 The contemplation of the stars was the noblest of all sciences for the ancients. The result of their study of the night sky was to see clusters of stars as images, and then tell a story about that animal or person as the constellation moved across the night sky. For us, the contemplation of the Bible is a noble task. Contemplating the people and stories that have come down to us from our spiritual ancestors is gratifying as they chart the work of God across the ages. 

This Advent at Saint Luke, we the gazers of 2022, contemplate the names used in the Bible for Jesus. We will gaze upon the texts and share our insights about what we see.  Just as with constellations, as we share our reflections, questions, and thoughts with one another, our light shines brighter and we see things that we never would have discovered on our own. Join us as we cast our Advent journey to Christmas in a new and rewarding light. 

Today’s reflection is from Sue Hirsh. She is involved in a variety of ways at Saint Luke such as Caregiving, Choir, Altar Guild, Communion Assistant, and Office Volunteer.

HEAD OF THE CHURCH

“And he has put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the church.”

-Ephesians 1:22

“O come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise! For the Lord is a great God and a great King above all gods. In his hand are the depths of the earth; the heights of the mountains are his also. The sea is his, for he made it, and the dry land, which his hands have formed. O come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker! For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture and the sheep of his hand.” -Psalm 95: 1-7

Christ is in charge of the universe and everything in it, forever. He has the final word. The church is the body of Christ. As our leader, Jesus inspires us to participate in His work in our world. Jesus does this by giving us wisdom and strength to carry out His mission. Our response should be praise, thanksgiving, and loving service.

Dear God, thank you for sending Jesus as our leader. Help us to follow Jesus’ example of selfless leadership. Amen.

Constellations of Wonder: True Vine

 “Oh holy night, the stars are brightly shining…”  Just as the wise men looked to the stars many Christmases ago, we too seek a bright star to guide us in our celebration of Jesus’ birth. Throughout the season of Advent, we are sharing daily reflections from the people of Saint Luke to help brighten our paths. Our daily writers offer to us their reflections on the various names used for Jesus in the Bible. Together their stars form a constellation of wonder that can fill us with hope, love, peace and joy as we journey towards Christmas.

Today’s reflection is from Gillian Heckert-Mitchell. She was baptized at Saint Luke…25 years ago! She has been on ASP trips (and excited to go back) and helps with the audio/visual team during the service.

TRUE VINE

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.” -John 15:1

The vine is the source of life and connects the branches to the roots. A young vine isn’t successful in growing fruit and is cut drastically back to conserve its life and energy. Once the young vine grows, it produces two types of branches, one that grows fruit and one that does not. The branches that don’t bear fruit are often cut back so they won’t drain the strength of the other fruit branches.

I graduated college in 2020. One day I was enjoying my last few months of college with friends, trying not to worry about finding a “real adulting job” and next thing I knew I was ripped from my college experience, from my boyfriend, from my friends, from my life that I knew. There was no graduation, no celebration, no commemorating all the hard work we had all completed. It was sad, scary, and lonely. It had felt like my source of life had been cut off completely.

For many of us, COVID threw us into the unknown, feeling like our source of life had been cut off. I, like many of you, turned that sadness and loneliness into kindness by helping at a local food pantry, or reconnecting with family, or finding a new passion/hobby.

Over the last two years, I’ve been able to reflect on how the vine wasn’t truly cut off but that the branches were cut back to give me strength, to own my gifts and to launch me into the next thing. Sometimes the vine feels like it's being ripped out when it's really showing you the important things in life–reconnecting you with your source of energy. 

Dear God, Thank you for being our source of life. You help us to grow in ways we never imagined and give us strength to ground ourselves in your True Vine. In your name we pray. Amen.

Constellations of Wonder: Bread of Life

We shine brightest when we shine together! Today’s reflection is a true constellation of wonder, formed by thoughts, insights, and prayers of multiple writers working together. They read, discussed, prayed and wrote together. May their reflection help brighten your way this Advent season.

Today’s reflection is from our Confirmation students! Our Confirmation students are 7th, 8th & 9th graders that gather each week to explore their faith together! Big thank you to Madison, Travis, Scott, Reid & Derek for sharing their reflections with us.

BREAD OF LIFE

"Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty." -John 6:35

God provides the bread of life to all people, kind of how God provided Manna from Heaven to the people in the Desert. This reminded our group of family get-togethers during the holidays. There are lots of food choices provided to everyone who comes. It particularly reminds us of the family gatherings at home and at church on Christmas Eve.

These family events provide excitement and hope for what is to come – from the presents each is hoping to give and get, but also to the best gift of all that we all receive – the birth of Jesus. We want to start opening the presents right away. Sometimes, we get a chance to open “one” or some open all of them on Christmas eve. Others must wait until Christmas Day. No matter what our tradition is, we all are filled with anticipation during the season. This reminds all of us that Jesus is our greatest gift of anticipation as the Bread of Life.

Dear God, thank you for the family gatherings and the amazing food provided during these gatherings. Thank you to the people who work so hard to provide us the food and allow us to have a wonderful time. Thank you also for the gifts at Christmas. We all have great anticipation for them, but we must wait to be rewarded at the right time – Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Thank you for the best give of all – Jesus. Who is our bread of life through eternity. In your name, we pray. Amen.

Constellations of Wonder: I Am

“Star of wonder, star of night, Guide us to thy perfect light…”  As we eagerly await Christmas, look up to the stars. Get lost in the wonder and pray to the One who created them. Each day in Advent, enjoy a reflection from a Saint Luke friend, as they too look up to the sky and ponder the names used in the Bible for Jesus. May their reflections be a gift to you this Christmas as we seek God together. 

Today’s reflection is from Jodi Cunniffe. She has been a member of Saint Luke for two and a half years. She facilitates the Thursday evening weekly prayer gathering.

I AM

"Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, before Abraham was, I am."‘ -John 8:58

The definition of wonder is "a feeling of surprise mingled with admiration, caused by something beautiful, unexpected, unfamiliar, or inexplicable and/or the desire or curiosity to know something". Well, that kind of describes Jesus' ministry and life; a life full of surprises and twists and turns. The wonder of who Jesus is becomes a catalyst for us to learn and discover more about ourselves and others and how this relates to our relationship and understanding of God.  

John 8:58 is a short and simple verse that really angered his audience.  Jesus said to them, "Very truly, I tell you, before Abraham was, I am."  After Jesus uttered those words, the people in the temple picked up stones to throw at him. Jesus hid, left the temple, and continued to perform miracles and good works.  

Think about times when you've been misunderstood and how frustrating that can be for both parties involved.  Because Jesus became one of us, "I am", he too became frustrated.  However, despite that frustration [delivering God's message is hard-not everyone is open to hearing it], Jesus continues to love us totally, completely, and unconditionally. Jesus' love for us is a beautiful, unrelenting love, that for many, when they experience it for the first time, is unexpected, unfamiliar-yet wonderful.  

During this time of advent remember all the ways that Jesus showed and taught us how to love. Reflect on how everyone comes to understand relationships and love in their own way and be patient with others as "I am" is with our developing understanding of his love for us. Andrea Gibson, the poet, says it best, "My grandma used to knit my mittens too big so they'd still fit me when I grew. I'd wear them and look like what I wasn't yet. Sometimes when I'm writing poems, they don't yet fit, and that's all to say, it's okay if the best of you is still something you're growing into."  I'd like to think we are all growing into understanding God. I know, I am. Go gently.

Dear God, Thank you for always loving us and for sending Jesus to teach us how to love each other and how to be our best selves. Help us enter into this advent season with open hearts and minds so that we can discover all of your wondrous beauty. Continue to surround us with your grace and protection and help us rest completely in your unfailing love. Help us to follow our own star of light and give us peaceful sleep until the breaking of a new day.  Amen

Constellations of Wonder: Good Shepherd

The contemplation of the stars was the noblest of all sciences for the ancients. The result of their study of the night sky was to see clusters of stars as images, and then tell a story about that animal or person as the constellation moved across the night sky. For us, the contemplation of the Bible is a noble task. Contemplating the people and stories that have come down to us from our spiritual ancestors is gratifying as they chart the work of God across the ages. 

This Advent at Saint Luke, we the gazers of 2022, contemplate the names used in the Bible for Jesus. We will gaze upon the texts and share our insights about what we see.  Just as with constellations, as we share our reflections, questions, and thoughts with one another, our light shines brighter and we see things that we never would have discovered on our own. Join us as we cast our Advent journey to Christmas in a new and rewarding light. 

Today’s reflection is from Gretchen & Paul DiSciascio. They have been at Saint Luke for 6 years. Paul sings in the choir and Gretchen teaches 6th grade Sunday School. 

THE LIGHT

"I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep." -John 10:11

As I reflect on what a shepherd really does, the act of taking all three of our children comes to mind. The shepherd's job is to try to keep the herd of sheep together, to keep eyes on them to be assured of their safety, to keep them from doing anything that threatens their health and safety, and then to usher them all safely back home. Let me assure you, friends, this is no easy task. See, sheep are not deep thinkers. They see something that looks interesting, and they head over to check it out.

Sheep have their own personalities. Some sheep are timid, and stick close to the group and their caretaker, much like my eldest child. You'll rarely find him doing something ill advised, and a quick prompt to pay attention to something is all he really needs to be kept safe. Some sheep are confident and a bit maternal. They help the shepherd by mothering the other sheep, nudging them to safety, guiding them to the good food, generally being calm and gentle. This is our youngest child.  She's always helping, looking out for others, and reminding her brothers and her friends around her when they're definitely not making great choices. She doesn't feel the need to stick close, but we can generally trust her to wander cautiously and come back. Then there's that curious sheep that sees something it wants and runs after it. It gives no thought to safety, or to any outside considerations. It sees what it wants and goes after it with an unshakeable tenacity. This is my middle child. 

Many of you are reading this and giggling at his frequent antics right now. The maternal sheep bleats at him, and he ignores her. The shepherd calls to him, and is yet again ignored. A good shepherd knows his sheep, and loves them. He knows that sheep is going to do something ridiculous, and prepares to protect him from any dangers that will inevitably arise. The shepherd knows as he gets out of bed to head off for a day of shepherding that his sheep will be who they are that day, and yet he heads out anyway, ready to jump in front of wolves and moving vehicles to keep them from harm and bring them home safely. The Good Shepherd, like a good parent, is always there to pick you up when you mess up, to show you the way when you're willing to pay attention, and to love and guide you along the way. Whichever kind of sheep you are, He is there, unfailingly, holding out his staff to help and guide you. Day after day, He helps, comforts, and guides us through the good and the bad. 

Father, we thank you for sending Jesus to shepherd and guide us through our ups and downs. We are filled with awe of your abounding and unfailing love for us. We are truly sorry for leaving the path, and we are grateful for the Good Shepherd who is always there to help and guide us home. Amen

Constellations of Wonder: The Light

 “Oh holy night, the stars are brightly shining…”  Just as the wise men looked to the stars many Christmases ago, we too seek a bright star to guide us in our celebration of Jesus’ birth. Throughout the season of Advent, we are sharing daily reflections from the people of Saint Luke to help brighten our paths. Our daily writers offer to us their reflections on the various names used for Jesus in the Bible. Together their stars form a constellation of wonder that can fill us with hope, love, peace and joy as we journey towards Christmas.

Today’s reflection is from TJ aka Thelma Jacks. She has been a member of Saint Luke since 2011 and has been involved in a wide variety of ministries such as social ministry, human resources ministry, generosity ministry, and more!

THE LIGHT

“While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” -John 9:5

“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.”’ -John 8:12

When I think of Jesus as the “light of the world,” many images come to mind: wisdom, knowledge, hope and promise, truth, purity, etc. Jesus is all these images and more. Although all images resonate with me, the one that came to mind upon the first reading of these verses was “hope and promise.” I thought of Harriet Tubman and her multiple journeys leading slaves from the South to the North. By night she used the light of the North Star to guide her fellow travelers to hope and promise.

Christians are called to be the light of the world.

There are many unrecognized “Harriet Tubman’s” using the light of hope and promise to guide others from darkness to light. These modern-day Harriet Tubman’s can be found in the classrooms of our public and private schools, in our churches teaching Sunday School, Adult Education, and Confirmation classes, in recovery centers helping those held hostage by unresolved trauma, drug addiction, and sexual assault, at Police Athletic League centers, at homeless shelters, in nursing homes, at places of employment, etc. These are ordinary people doing God’s work by spreading the Good News of the Gospel, loving thy neighbor as God has loved us, and having no other god before Him. These ordinary people carry and shine a bright light---the hope and promise of our Lord Jesus Christ through their service to others!

No matter how small or large the light may be, let it shine so that others may see it. That light just might begin the faith journey of its viewers.

This little light of mine. I’m gonna let it shine. Amen.

Constellations of Wonder: Immanuel

The contemplation of the stars was the noblest of all sciences for the ancients. The result of their study of the night sky was to see clusters of stars as images, and then tell a story about that animal or person as the constellation moved across the night sky. For us, the contemplation of the Bible is a noble task. Contemplating the people and stories that have come down to us from our spiritual ancestors is gratifying as they chart the work of God across the ages.

This Advent at Saint Luke, we the gazers of 2022, contemplate the names used in the Bible for Jesus. We will gaze upon the texts and share our insights about what we see. Just as with constellations, as we share our reflections, questions, and thoughts with one another, our light shines brighter and we see things that we never would have discovered on our own. Join us as we cast our Advent journey to Christmas in a new and rewarding light. 

Today’s reflection is from Annie Webb:

IMMANUEL

“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Look, the young woman is with child and shall bear a son and shall name him Immanuel.” -Isaiah 7:14

What’s in a name? In the Webb household, a lot! Dave and I had a couple of rules in naming our children. Dave said, “no one-syllable first names and no Juniors if we have boys.” Well, OK. I kept nixing names associated with people I didn’t particularly like. We LOVED our first boy’s name, found in a long list in a baby name book, then had a hard time matching that for the second boy and made a literal game-day decision after he was born. Our daughter got two names honoring her grandmothers and I see both of those strong women in her every day. In the end, all the lists, all the haggling, all the “ewww, no nevers” turned into Jameson David, Thomas Peter, and Meredith Josephine. Whew. Not too bad, right? 

Imagine the anxiety of trying to name the son of God?! In Hebrew, Immanuel means “God With Us.” Well, maybe that was a slam dunk rivaling even the Webb name game. God in heaven, floating above ruling omnipotent can be hard to imagine, can’t He? We believe without seeing, sure, but oh to see God in the flesh. To have God walk literally among us? This name reverberates with me because I always had a hard time with the “puppet strings” God. The one behind the clouds playing chess with our lives. A much more comforting and real God to me is one who stands beside me when I go through trials. Who is near me when I celebrate? Who I know is with my children in any corner of the world that they venture to. Not one controlling everything, but one being there for everything. God With Us. Immanuel.  

Immanuel, God with Us, reveal yourself to us this Christmas. Amen.

Constellations of Wonder: The Word

 “Oh holy night, the stars are brightly shining…”  Just as the wise men looked to the stars many Christmases ago, we too seek a bright star to guide us in our celebration of Jesus’ birth. Throughout the season of Advent, we are sharing daily reflections from the people of Saint Luke to help brighten our paths. Our daily writers offer to us their reflections on the various names used for Jesus in the Bible. Together their stars form a constellation of wonder that can fill us with hope, love, peace and joy as we journey towards Christmas.

Today’s reflection is from Pastor Karl Krueger, Saint Luke’s own pastor in residence:

The Word

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” -John 1:1

The Renaissance scholar, Erasmus of Rotterdam, changed how we read the Bible. In 1516, he completed a new Latin translation of the New Testament based on the Greek text that was included when his book was published. It was the first time in 1,200 years that western readers of the New Testament saw the text in Greek! Like any translator, Erasmus was unsatisfied and kept improving his Latin translation. In the 1519 edition, his rendition of John 1:1 took everyone by surprise. The verse was usually translated as, “In the beginning was the Word.” Erasmus’s translation in 1519 read, “In the beginning was the sermon.” Erasmus wanted his readers to see a living, breathing Word, Jesus, standing before them and speaking directly to them.

When Luther translated the New Testament into German, he had a copy of Erasmus’s 1519 edition at the Wartburg. Erasmus inspired Luther, who wanted Germans to hear the scriptures in the living/breathing language they spoke in the kitchen and on the streets. Luther wanted Germans to hear Jesus breathing and speaking with them. Erasmus has inspired me when I write a sermon as I desire to offer Jesus as the living and breathing Lord who engages us in our lives in 2022.

Breathing. People of God, I took breathing for granted, and then came COVID. The first time I had to wear a mask in the supermarket was one of the strangest experiences in my life. I felt like an alien, my glasses fogged up, and it was difficult to breathe, let alone read product labels. Preaching while wearing a mask was brutal. I thought I was smothering. At Christmas services, singing “Angels We Have Heard on High” was torture. Meeting people was difficult as I only saw a portion of their faces. I took breathing for granted until COVID. Post-COVID, I give thanks. I can breathe without a mask. I can preach the Word without a mask. Shake hands and speak with a person face-to-face. I can read the labels on products in the supermarket. I feel connections. I feel human again. Christmas 2022 is gift.

Thank you, Lord, for the vaccines and boosters that have allowed us to remove the masks and breathe in Advent and Christmas 2022. It is great to sing and speak without a mask. Lord, you never come masked. You are our living and breathing God who engages us face-to-face. Lord, let us never forget the miracle of your birth when you took a breath and joined us in our journey. Amen. 

Constellations of Wonder: Prince of Peace

 “Oh holy night, the stars are brightly shining…”  Just as the wise men looked to the stars many Christmases ago, we too seek a bright star to guide us in our celebration of Jesus’ birth. Throughout the season of Advent, we are sharing daily reflections from the people of Saint Luke to help brighten our paths. Our daily writers offer to us their reflections on the various names used for Jesus in the Bible. Together their stars form a constellation of wonder that can fill us with hope, love, peace and joy as we journey towards Christmas.

Today’s reflection is from John & Elizabeth Muir.  Elizabeth has been attending Saint Luke since she was three years old. They were married here in 1989 and their three children were all baptized and confirmed here. They have been ushers, Sunday school teachers, lectors, as well as many other roles, but their passion is the yearly Appalachia Service Project (ASP) Trips where they lead the youth of Saint Luke in sharing God’s love by making homes warmer, safer and drier for others.

Prince of peace

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” -Isaiah 9:6

“Peace is a concept of societal friendship and harmony in the absence of hostility and violence.” What a perfect name for the child born for all of us on Christmas. The peace that this Prince brought was not the absence of hostility and violence, but a peace that exists despite hostility and violence. On a night where we sing Oh Holy Night with only candles to light the sanctuary, we feel the peace that this Prince brought. His peace exists through all the disturbing events that life hits us with and gives us the ability to endure and be calm. Elizabeth and I wish all of you a very joyous and peaceful Christmas.

God, thank you for sending us your son, the Prince of Peace, who commanded us to love one another as he loved us. Help us to find time this Christmas season to be still and feel your peace. Help us to find time to share this peace with others, and to celebrate the gift of the Christ child, Prince of Peace! Amen.

Constellations of Wonder: Lord of All

“Star of wonder, star of night, Guide us to thy perfect light…”  As we eagerly await Christmas, look up to the stars. Get lost in the wonder and pray to the One who created them. Each day in Advent, enjoy a reflection from a Saint Luke friend, as they too look up to the sky and ponder the names used in the Bible for Jesus. May their reflections be a gift to you this Christmas as we seek God together. 

Today’s reflection is from Allen Benner-Smith. Allen is Saint Luke's Parish Administrator. He has been answering phones and typing announcements in the church office since Windows XP.

Lord of all

“Therefore God exalted him even more highly and gave him the name that is above every other name, so that at the name given to Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” - Philippians 2: 9-11

I still remember the first time I looked at the moon with binoculars. I was about 10 years old, standing on a dark bluff at a church camp on the shore of Lake Erie. Flabbergasted by how much detail I could see with even those small lenses and how BRIGHT the moon looked, I'd repeatedly take the binoculars away from my face, look up in disbelief, look through the binoculars, take them away - over and over again. Since I grew up during the space race of the 60s, I knew that I was seeing light reflected off an orbiting body some quarter million miles away, and that the nearest of those glittering stars is nearly forty TRILLION miles away.

The night sky is where I experience just a taste of infinity.  The Psalmist wrote,

When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers,  the moon and the stars that you have established; what are humans that you are mindful of them, mortals that you care for them?

That's not what goes through my mind, though.  The infinite cosmos shows me that the Lord of all, the limitless power that loved the universe into being, holds ME as beloved.  Holds YOU as beloved.  Holds US as beloved - right down to the hairs on our heads.  Jesus isn't only "out there" somewhere.  He's here: comforting, guiding, forgiving, inspiring, loving - every minute of every day.  We're never alone.  

 

Lord of all, your touch sets the planets spinning and also calms my soul when it's frantic.  Thank you for all the ways we are reminded of how big - and - how intimate is your love for us.  Thank you that being Lord of All means "Lord of me", too.  Give us faith to feel that love, hold on to your promises and abide in you all the days of our lives.  Amen.

Constellations of Wonder: Mighty God

The contemplation of the stars was the noblest of all sciences for the ancients. The result of their study of the night sky was to see clusters of stars as images, and then tell a story about that animal or person as the constellation moved across the night sky. For us, the contemplation of the Bible is a noble task. Contemplating the people and stories that have come down to us from our spiritual ancestors is gratifying as they chart the work of God across the ages. 

This Advent at Saint Luke, we the gazers of 2022, contemplate the names used in the Bible for Jesus. We will gaze upon the texts and share our insights about what we see.  Just as with constellations, as we share our reflections, questions, and thoughts with one another, our light shines brighter and we see things that we never would have discovered on our own. Join us as we cast our Advent journey to Christmas in a new and rewarding light. 

Today’s reflection is from Marie Lambeck:

Mighty God

“For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” - Isaiah 9:6

On its own, each of these words peppers our conservations on a fairly frequent basis.  MIGHTY oaks and MIGHTY mouse provide us with a host of emotions ranging from awe to laughter.  MIGHTY is used 273 times in The Holy Bible, by some counts, proof of its long history of usage.

Then, there’s that other word, GOD.  Who hasn’t murmured, “GOD rest their soul” or “GOD speed” in support of a friend?  Does not “GOD bless you “ defy counting? GOD is found in a hefty 3893 Bible verses.

Partnering MIGHTY and GOD invites even broader possibilities.  When I think, say, or sing MIGHTY GOD, I gain gratefulness, peace, and opportunity.  MIGHTY GOD blessed Bible writers, Martin Luther, and all GOD’S people, including you and me.

Mighty God Always.

What a mighty God we serve. What a mighty God we serve. Angels bow before Him. Heaven and earth adore Him. Amen.

Constellations of Wonder: Lamb of God

“Oh holy night, the stars are brightly shining…”

Just as the wise men looked to the stars many Christmases ago, we too seek a bright star to guide us in our celebration of Jesus’ birth. Throughout the season of Advent, we are sharing daily reflections from the people of Saint Luke to help brighten our paths. Our daily writers offer to us their reflections on the various names used for Jesus in the Bible. Together their stars form a constellation of wonder that can fill us with hope, love, peace and joy as we journey towards Christmas.

Today’s reflection is from Sherri Moir. Sherri has been a member of Saint Luke for nearly 25 years. She currently serve on the Worship & Music committee and coordinates and trains our young Acolytes!

Lamb of God

“ John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.’” - John 1:29

When we think about lambs, we might think first of cute and fuzzy-white small animals, pure and innocent, frolicking in green fields.  This is perfectly reasonable for 21st century Americans.  But when John the Baptist was at the river baptizing 2000 years ago, and declared Jesus to be the Lamb of God, the people listening probably thought more about how their lambs were typically a sacrifice for their sins, a consequence for breaking a sacred law.  He was trying to tell them that this man was to be a pure and innocent sacrifice for them.  Shocking thoughts.  

Calling Jesus the Lamb of God is a reminder that we always need to think about that ultimate sacrifice, and I think similarly, the sacrifices that others may have made for us throughout life.  It is also a reminder to give of yourself, perhaps make a sacrifice, when it’s for the good of the world.

Dear God, thank you for today. Thank you for sending Jesus, the Lamb of God, to walk with us and remind us that you are always with us. Thank you for his sacrifice on the cross for our sins, and all the sins of the world. Help us to remember and appreciate anyone who sacrifices anything for others. In your name we pray, Amen.

Constellations of Wonder: Resurrection

“Star of wonder, star of night, Guide us to thy perfect light…” 

As we eagerly await Christmas, look up to the stars. Get lost in the wonder and pray to the One who created them. Each day in Advent, enjoy a reflection from a Saint Luke friend, as they too look up to the sky and ponder the names used in the Bible for Jesus. May their reflections be a gift to you this Christmas as we seek God together. 

Today’s reflection is from Ann Fehr. Ann was baptized at Saint Luke. She married her husband at Saint Luke 33 years ago. She has raised her children here, sharing many of the same Sunday School teachers! Over the years, she has been involved in a wide variety of activities from VBS to communion bread making to Confirmation!

Resurrection

“Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life.f Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live…” - John 11:25

Some Christians debate which of the Christian holidays is the most important to our faith.  Is it Christmas because if Jesus wasn’t born then he couldn’t be our Jesus? Or is it Easter, because it was through his dying and being resurrected that our sins are forgiven and we have eternal life? The ultimate sacrifice. I believe that’s the beauty of our faith; we can keep asking ourselves questions. 

Life, boy it can get busy and complicated and frustrating. If we aren’t careful we can let life bring us down. The frustrations overshadow the good things, the gratitude and the blessings!  Jesus and the many name tags he wears is always there for us. Always there, everywhere. Look for him in your friends, your family, your homes, your gardens, and try to find the blessings. 

I find peace in knowing that when I leave this earth, Jesus, the resurrected, will be waiting for me in heaven. And that on a daily basis, in this sinful world, my sins can be forgiven. I need to ask and to mean it.  And to look for the blessings.  Merry Christmas!

Dear Lord, on this day, and all days, help us to find your blessings, in our family and friends and all the good things. And when we have trouble finding the blessings, help us to find them. They are there and so are you. And help us to remember those people who are lonely or grieving during the holidays. In your name, Amen.

Constellations of Wonder: The Light

The contemplation of the stars was the noblest of all sciences for the ancients. The result of their study of the night sky was to see clusters of stars as images, and then tell a story about that animal or person as the constellation moved across the night sky. For us, the contemplation of the Bible is a noble task. Contemplating the people and stories that have come down to us from our spiritual ancestors is gratifying as they chart the work of God across the ages.

This Advent at Saint Luke, we the gazers of 2022, contemplate the names used in the Bible for Jesus. We will gaze upon the texts and share our insights about what we see. Just as with constellations, as we share our reflections, questions, and thoughts with one another, our light shines brighter and we see things that we never would have discovered on our own. Join us as we cast our Advent journey to Christmas in a new and rewarding light. 

Today’s reflection is from Susan C. Saxer:

The Light

“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” - John 8:12

“As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” - John 9:5

There is a wonderful song by Dianne Reeves entitled Grandma’s Song (also known as Better Days) in which a young girl, maybe 3 or 4 years old under her nightly bed covers, asks her Grandma several of life’s important questions: 

“How can I be sure what is right or wrong ?

And why does what I want always take so long?

Please tell me where does God live

And why won't He talk to me

I'd say, Grandma what is love ?

Will I ever find out?

Why are we so poor, what is life about?

I want to know the answers before I fall off to sleep.”

The song continues with Grandma pulling up her Rocking Chair and saying:

“All the things you ask

You will know someday.

But you have got to live in a patient way.

God put us here by fate

And by fate that means better days.

She said, child we are all moons in the dark of night.

Ain't no morning gonna come 'til the time is right.

Can't get to better days lest you make it through the night.

You gotta make it through the night, yes you do.

You can't get to no better days

Unless you make it through the night.

Oh, you will see those better days

But you gotta be patient.

(Be patient) oh baby, be patient.

Whenever my life journey takes me or someone else through dark times, I think of this song and John 8:12. God and the Holy Spirit guide us and help us to be patient through dark times. Jesus is the Light that shines on us when we cannot see. Jesus sheds his light on us so we can make it through the dark nights to better days ahead.

Dear God,  help me and us to never forget that Jesus is always the light of the world, no matter what. Help me and us to be patient as we remember that through Jesus, we can make it though the night no matter how dark or treacherous and no matter how many times we must journey in the darkness of night. Help me and us to know that through His light we can live and see better days. Thanks be to God. Amen 

God's Work. Our Hands: Why Service Matters?

Each year Evangelical Lutheran Church in America around the country celebrate “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday in September. According to the ELCA, “this day is an opportunity to celebrate who we are as the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America – one church, freed in Christ to serve and love our neighbor. Service activities offer an opportunity for us to explore one of our most basic convictions as Lutherans: that all of life in Jesus Christ – every act of service, in every daily calling, in every corner of life – flows freely from a living, daring confidence in God’s grace.”

At Saint Luke, we too participate in this special effort, but it also influences all that we do as a congregation. Service is a part of living out our mission to Know, Love, and Serve Christ. Everyday we encourage and inspire one another to live in service. Throughout the year, we also have special opportunities to serve side by side in our community locally, across our country or globally around the world.

Serving Our Community

Recently a team from Saint Luke participate in a local service project in partnership with the local Habitat for Humanity branch. The Faith + Build project was an incredible opportunity for people from Saint Luke to help build affordable housing for those in need right in our community. The team worked on rigid foam insulation on the exterior of the house, alongside two of the four homeowner families. All of the future homeowners with Habitat are minority groups. At Habitat, they want to change the language about who can own a home- that anyone can own a home no matter where you came from or what you look like and that they are welcome in our community. Saint Luke was thrilled to be a part of this welcoming effort, including the hard physical work it involved. It was not always easy so why did a team of people just like you, choose to spend their Saturday doing this? We asked them to reflect on their experiences and here is what they had to say…

Why do you serve?

Gillian Heckert Mitchell, a member of Saint Luke and Volunteer Outreach Coordinator for Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery and Delaware Counties, has always had a passion for giving back to her community. She explained, “I think my love for serving took shape during my experiences with ASP but I continued to give back during college with the local Habitat for Humanity affiliate and at a community food pantry. I continued my love of serving and now work for Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery and Delaware Counties. Even if it doesn’t seem like a big change day to day, I know, I get to be part of the change in my local community.” Another participant, Elizabeth Muir shared that she personally gets a lot out of working along side other church members, but also enjoys serving because it allows her to help very deserving people.

What was the most meaningful part of serving on the build day?

Gillian easily answered this question- the people! She explained, “Any construction build I've ever attended, with ASP or with Habitat, the most meaningful part is getting to know the homeowners or in Habitat’s case, future homeowners. They are always so grateful for the time we spend joining them on the build site, building their homes and getting to know them.”

A Habitat home is not simply given away to a family. A family seeking a Habitat home qualifies for a no interest and no down payment mortgage on their new home. This allows individuals and families to purchase their homes from Habitat for Humanity at a reasonable market value. Families have to qualify and work for their home through sweat equity hours. The sweat equity hours are between 200-400 hours involved in constructing their home alongside the volunteers. New homeowners are also required to take a financial education class (our Program is called Almost Home: Financial Education Class) to ensure they will succeed financially once they enter their new home.

Another participant Tom McCown and Elizabeth Muir echoed this sentiment, recounting how much they enjoyed working alongside the homeowners that were present that day. Tom went on to share that he had a chance to meet them and work with one really nice gentleman for the better part of the day. It was a wonderful experience for them to work as a team!


How has your faith been impacted by serving? What have you learned?

Gillian thoughtfully reflected on her past experiences as she said, “A lot of times we get stuck in our daily routine…the day to day of work/school or the TV show we’re watching that just came out with a new season…and I think taking time out of that routine to volunteer allows our mind to be more open to new perspectives or new ideas. You’re able to see the insecurities and disparities in your local communities, right here in the U.S., right in our own backyard. I find it surprising when someone says, “this issue doesn’t happen in my community,” and yet when you look around and go out to volunteer in your local community, you see people who aren’t able to put food on the table for their family or can’t buy a home because of the color of their skin.” Elizabeth shared that she has learned that “lending a hand, albeit I am not that experienced in carpentry, is very fulfilling.”

It has been clear that serving challenges us and changes us personally. Gillian went on to share, “I think serving through my faith is allowing my eyes to stay open to see the pain and suffering in our neighborhoods and being a part of the change. I show up for my faith when I extend a hand and walk with them through their journey.” Tom summed up his experience well stating, “Giving back is always a good thing and keeps my faith strong.”

 

Next Steps

Where ever you are in the world, there are needs around you. Serving requires us to remain aware and proactive. As our participants shared, you may have a variety of reasons that lead you to serve in the first place- improving your community, wanting to be a part of change, looking to bond with others or personal fulfillment. However, whatever your reasons may be, taking that first step and being a part of God’s work with your own two hands opens you up to the possibility of something beautiful for both you and others. Join us in doing God’s Work for the sake of the world.

Need help taking that first step, reach out to us & we are happy to help you find a meaningful way to contribute. You have something to offer that our world needs.

Lord, may we join you in your work of building a future and repairing the world. Bless, God, our lives as we answer your call, sharing the good news of your Gospel. Amen.

Based on the hymn, God’s Work, Our Hands by Wayne L. Wold

Worshiping and Praying in Historic Cathedrals

While traveling during sabbatical, Pastor Matt and his family have been blessed to visit amazing churches and cathedrals in Europe. Visits included time to take in the history and beauty of sacred spaces, to pray (especially for the mission of Saint Luke), and even to worship, including a special festival Eucharist service at Westminster Abbey in London.

Pastor Matt’s Reflection

“I have been overwhelmed again and again by the beauty and history, from the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel to the soaring architecture and stained glass of cathedrals in Italy, Paris, and London. I have also been humbled to reflect on the simple truth that Saint Luke is connected to a community of believers that has endured centuries of human history and has participated in transformation time and again as God has worked among us.” God continues to meet us at this point in human history, calling us forward into a future of yet-to-be-discovered transformation. May we join today with generations and centuries of God’s faithful people in praying for the vision to live into everything that God wants for this world and the faithfulness to actively participate in the mission of living out the next chapter in God’s unfolding story!

Travel with Pastor Matt

While it may not be the same as being in person with Pastor Matt, we too can get swept away in the beauty and history of the Sistine Chapel. Spend a few moments “exploring” the chapel online. You can either watch a video or take a virtual tour to get a glimpse of what Pastor Matt just experienced.


Once you have spent some time exploring, join us in reflection and praying for the following:

  • Reflect: What did you see that stood out to you? Pay attention to your emotions and notice what you felt. What might God be showing you through the beauty of the chapel?

  • Pray for Saint Luke: Join us as we ask for God to reveal to our congregation how we can faithfully and actively participate in the mission.

  • Pray for the world: Thank God for the generations and centuries of faithful people around the globe. Ask for the next chapter to unfold with us living into everything God desires for our world.