Source (book): "Making All Things New", 52 Reflections to Challenge the Way You Live, Chapter 38, "The Mess And The Messiah", Page 201.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012
PHOTO: The ancient world into which Jesus was born was a pretty rough place. Life was short. The average lifespan was 35 to 40 years. [1a]
In the international sphere, Rome was the imperial power that ruled a
large part of the known world. And decay was setting in. A third of the
city's population were slaves. The powerful and rich were bored. They
entertained themselves with blood sports and whatever else they fancied.
In many parts of the world, raw power ruled the day. The man who wielded the sword was king. The wealthy man owned the world. The ordinary people on the streets and in the fields went about their daily existence often with great difficulty. Democracy, though it was idealised in ancient Athens, was not practised in Jesus' day. In many places, life was best described in the words of Thomas Hobbes, the 17th-century English philosopher. He said: "No arts; no letters; no society; and which is worst of all, continual fear and danger of violent death, and the life of man solitary (lonely), poor, nasty, brutish, and short." [2]
Life indeed was poor, nasty, brutish, and short for many. And so it must have been for the poor shepherds who watched their flocks in the cold Judean (Judaea, the southern part of ancient Palestine) night in the fields outside Bethlehem (Luke 2:8-20). And to them was announced the good news that the Messiah was born. The angels appeared and sang about divine glory and world peace. The angels went into Bethlehem and found the baby lying in a manger. Though the stable where Jesus was found was the humblest of places, the shepherd knew in their hearts that this was a special baby. They were convinced that what they saw when heaven opened up, and what they heard when the angels sang their tidings (news), were true.
The shepherds must have felt at home in the humble stable. As people who lived in poverty, it was the kind of place they were used to. Just as well that Jesus was not born in some fancy palace lined with gold and silver. They would not have gained entry. Even if allowed in, they would have felt terribly out of place. The more worldly among them would have had their eyes glued to the trappings of luxury instead of the baby. Just as well that Jesus was born in the stable of an overcrowded inn. It was a place that poor and simple people could relate to.
The shepherds returned to their flocks and to their poor lives with a new spirit. They were glorifying and praising God. Their difficult circumstances may not have changed much. But they were changed men.
While the world has moved on over the centuries, the human condition has remained the same. Slavery still exists in new forms. Mindless violence continues to terrorise many parts of the world. Events at the beginning of the new millennium (the 21st century began on 1 January 2001 and will continue through 31 December 2100. The 3rd millennium began with AD 2001 and will continue through AD 3000.), including the tragedies of September 11, 2001, the Bali bombing, the hostage taking in Moscow, and the sniper shootings in Maryland in 2002, among many others, have made us more aware that even in modern times, we live in a fragile and unpredictable world.
In spite of all the advances in science and technology, the depiction of ideal lifestyles in social media, and the feeling that we are in control of our lives, we know that we live in a messy world. An alien who spent a week on earth would probably come to that same conclusion.
The apostle John describes the condition of the world as "darkness" (John 1:5). Paul describes the human condition as "without hope and without God in the world" (Ephesians 2:12). Imagine reading our newspapers and watching the evening news, without hope and without God in the world. What a terrible and frightening thought!
Jesus the Messiah came to a messy world. He was not afraid of the mess. He did not stay at a safe distance to deal with he mess. He could have tried to save us while remaining safely in heaven. But He came down: "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us" (John 1:14). He emptied himself and took the form of a servant. He became vulnerable. He touched lepers without gloves. He took on a life of poverty. He had no place to call His own. He did not even carry cash with Him. He experienced what it means to be homeless and poor. He experienced being beaten up violently. He was spat on and called names. He was stripped and hung on a rough cross, dying a public and humiliating death. He knew all about the human mess in this world. He entered the mess as the Messiah.
Whenever we celebrate Christmas, our celebrations may be coloured by the pessimism and anxiety we see around us. Terrorism, economic uncertainty, worries about the future - we seem to be living in the era of bad news. The world is in a mess.
But it is precisely in these circumstances that we need to hear the good news afresh. In Christ, we have the Saviour, the Messiah. He knows all about the mess we human beings can get ourselves into. Looking at the mess without the Messiah turns our lives and our distant horizons into darkness. But when we look at the Messiah, then we see the light in the darkness. John declared: "The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it" (John 1:5). May we see the light shining in the darkness, and may God give us grace to understand this light.
When Mary, the mother of Jesus, saw all that was happening and heard all that was said, she "treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart" (Luke 2:19). Let us do the same every Christmas, quietly pondering this mystery: that God in His love has not abandoned us to perish in our mess, but has sent us the Messiah, in whom is all our hope. In Christ, we see the glory of God and in Him we have peace. Even in this messy world.
In many parts of the world, raw power ruled the day. The man who wielded the sword was king. The wealthy man owned the world. The ordinary people on the streets and in the fields went about their daily existence often with great difficulty. Democracy, though it was idealised in ancient Athens, was not practised in Jesus' day. In many places, life was best described in the words of Thomas Hobbes, the 17th-century English philosopher. He said: "No arts; no letters; no society; and which is worst of all, continual fear and danger of violent death, and the life of man solitary (lonely), poor, nasty, brutish, and short." [2]
Life indeed was poor, nasty, brutish, and short for many. And so it must have been for the poor shepherds who watched their flocks in the cold Judean (Judaea, the southern part of ancient Palestine) night in the fields outside Bethlehem (Luke 2:8-20). And to them was announced the good news that the Messiah was born. The angels appeared and sang about divine glory and world peace. The angels went into Bethlehem and found the baby lying in a manger. Though the stable where Jesus was found was the humblest of places, the shepherd knew in their hearts that this was a special baby. They were convinced that what they saw when heaven opened up, and what they heard when the angels sang their tidings (news), were true.
The shepherds must have felt at home in the humble stable. As people who lived in poverty, it was the kind of place they were used to. Just as well that Jesus was not born in some fancy palace lined with gold and silver. They would not have gained entry. Even if allowed in, they would have felt terribly out of place. The more worldly among them would have had their eyes glued to the trappings of luxury instead of the baby. Just as well that Jesus was born in the stable of an overcrowded inn. It was a place that poor and simple people could relate to.
The shepherds returned to their flocks and to their poor lives with a new spirit. They were glorifying and praising God. Their difficult circumstances may not have changed much. But they were changed men.
While the world has moved on over the centuries, the human condition has remained the same. Slavery still exists in new forms. Mindless violence continues to terrorise many parts of the world. Events at the beginning of the new millennium (the 21st century began on 1 January 2001 and will continue through 31 December 2100. The 3rd millennium began with AD 2001 and will continue through AD 3000.), including the tragedies of September 11, 2001, the Bali bombing, the hostage taking in Moscow, and the sniper shootings in Maryland in 2002, among many others, have made us more aware that even in modern times, we live in a fragile and unpredictable world.
In spite of all the advances in science and technology, the depiction of ideal lifestyles in social media, and the feeling that we are in control of our lives, we know that we live in a messy world. An alien who spent a week on earth would probably come to that same conclusion.
The apostle John describes the condition of the world as "darkness" (John 1:5). Paul describes the human condition as "without hope and without God in the world" (Ephesians 2:12). Imagine reading our newspapers and watching the evening news, without hope and without God in the world. What a terrible and frightening thought!
Jesus the Messiah came to a messy world. He was not afraid of the mess. He did not stay at a safe distance to deal with he mess. He could have tried to save us while remaining safely in heaven. But He came down: "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us" (John 1:14). He emptied himself and took the form of a servant. He became vulnerable. He touched lepers without gloves. He took on a life of poverty. He had no place to call His own. He did not even carry cash with Him. He experienced what it means to be homeless and poor. He experienced being beaten up violently. He was spat on and called names. He was stripped and hung on a rough cross, dying a public and humiliating death. He knew all about the human mess in this world. He entered the mess as the Messiah.
Whenever we celebrate Christmas, our celebrations may be coloured by the pessimism and anxiety we see around us. Terrorism, economic uncertainty, worries about the future - we seem to be living in the era of bad news. The world is in a mess.
But it is precisely in these circumstances that we need to hear the good news afresh. In Christ, we have the Saviour, the Messiah. He knows all about the mess we human beings can get ourselves into. Looking at the mess without the Messiah turns our lives and our distant horizons into darkness. But when we look at the Messiah, then we see the light in the darkness. John declared: "The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it" (John 1:5). May we see the light shining in the darkness, and may God give us grace to understand this light.
When Mary, the mother of Jesus, saw all that was happening and heard all that was said, she "treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart" (Luke 2:19). Let us do the same every Christmas, quietly pondering this mystery: that God in His love has not abandoned us to perish in our mess, but has sent us the Messiah, in whom is all our hope. In Christ, we see the glory of God and in Him we have peace. Even in this messy world.
Picture posted by jambulart, Adobe Stock
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The ancient world into which Jesus was born was a pretty rough place. Life was short. The average lifespan was 35 to 40 years. [1a] In the international sphere, Rome was the imperial power that ruled a large part of the known world. And decay was setting in. A third of the city's population were slaves. The powerful and rich were bored. They entertained themselves with blood sports and whatever else they fancied.
PHOTO: The ancient world into which Jesus was born was a pretty rough place. Life was short. The average lifespan was 35 to 40 years. [1a] In the international sphere, Rome was the imperial power that ruled a large part of the known world. And decay was setting in. A third of the city's population were slaves. The powerful and rich were bored. They entertained themselves with blood sports and whatever else they fancied.
Posted by Hollywood Bound, Photographs by Mark Shaw - The Sign of the Cross (1932, © The Kobal Collection) - Claudette Colbert as Empress Poppaea in The Sign of the Cross. Produced and directed by Cecil B. DeMille
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https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2015/09/the-sign-of-cross-1932-kobal-collection.html
In many parts of the world, raw power ruled the day. The man who wielded the sword was king. The wealthy man owned the world. The ordinary people on the streets and in the fields went about their daily existence often with great difficulty. Democracy, though it was idealised in ancient Athens, was not practised in Jesus' day. In many places, life was best described in the words of Thomas Hobbes, the 17th-century English philosopher. He said: "No arts; no letters; no society; and which is worst of all, continual fear and danger of violent death, and the life of man solitary (lonely), poor, nasty, brutish, and short." [2]
PHOTO: In many parts of the world, raw power ruled the day. The man who wielded the sword was king. The wealthy man owned the world. The ordinary people on the streets and in the fields went about their daily existence often with great difficulty. Democracy, though it was idealised in ancient Athens, was not practised in Jesus' day. In many places, life was best described in the words of Thomas Hobbes, the 17th-century English philosopher. He said: "No arts; no letters; no society; and which is worst of all, continual fear and danger of violent death, and the life of man solitary (lonely), poor, nasty, brutish, and short." [2]
Picture posted by Historic illustrations, Fine Art America
Picture is enlarged by AI-powered image upscaler from depositphotos at https://depositphotos.com/upscaler.html?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_term=button2&utm_campaign=ntf_upscaler&utm_content=en&iterable_campaign=2704095&iterable_template=3704971
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Life indeed was poor, nasty, brutish, and short for many. And so it must have been for the poor shepherds who watched their flocks in the cold Judean (Judaea, the southern part of ancient Palestine) night in the fields outside Bethlehem (Luke 2:8-20). And to them was announced the good news that the Messiah was born. The angels appeared and sang about divine glory and world peace. The angels went into Bethlehem and found the baby lying in a manger. Though the stable where Jesus was found was the humblest of places, the shepherd knew in their hearts that this was a special baby. They were convinced that what they saw when heaven opened up, and what they heard when the angels sang their tidings (news), were true.
PHOTO: Life indeed was poor, nasty, brutish, and short for many. And so it must have been for the poor shepherds who watched their flocks in the cold Judean (Judaea, the southern part of ancient Palestine) night in the fields outside Bethlehem (Luke 2:8-20). And to them was announced the good news that the Messiah was born. The angels appeared and sang about divine glory and world peace. The angels went into Bethlehem and found the baby lying in a manger. Though the stable where Jesus was found was the humblest of places, the shepherd knew in their hearts that this was a special baby. They were convinced that what they saw when heaven opened up, and what they heard when the angels sang their tidings (news), were true.
Picture posted by Vermont Christmas Company
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https://www.vermontchristmasco.com/product/3834/1000-piece-puzzles
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-angels-we-have-heard-on-high.html
The shepherds must have felt at home in the humble stable. As people who lived in poverty, it was the kind of place they were used to. Just as well that Jesus was not born in some fancy palace lined with gold and silver. They would not have gained entry. Even if allowed in, they would have felt terribly out of place. The more worldly among them would have had their eyes glued to the trappings of luxury instead of the baby. Just as well that Jesus was born in the stable of an overcrowded inn. It was a place that poor and simple people could relate to.
The shepherds returned to their flocks and to their poor lives with a new spirit. They were glorifying and praising God. Their difficult circumstances may not have changed much. But they were changed men.
PHOTO: The shepherds returned to their flocks and to their poor lives with a new spirit. They were glorifying and praising God. Their difficult circumstances may not have changed much. But they were changed men.
Picture posted by hugocolodedeus
Picture saved from Annapetrovich - Great cloud of witnesses
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https://www.pinterest.com/pin/633529872560257039/?lp=true
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-angels-from-realms-of-glory.html
While the world has moved on over the centuries, the human condition has remained the same. Slavery still exists in new forms. Mindless violence continues to terrorise many parts of the world. Events at the beginning of the new millennium (the 21st century began on 1 January 2001 and will continue through 31 December 2100. The 3rd millennium began with AD 2001 and will continue through AD 3000.), including the tragedies of September 11, 2001, the Bali bombing, the hostage taking in Moscow, and the sniper shootings in Maryland in 2002, among many others, have made us more aware that even in modern times, we live in a fragile and unpredictable world.
https://render.fineartamerica.com/images/rendered/default/print/6.5/8/break/images/artworkimages/medium/3/the-destruction-of-leviathan-by-gustave-dore-s4-historic-illustrations.jpg
https://fineartamerica.com/featured/the-destruction-of-leviathan-by-gustave-dore-s4-historic-illustrations.html?product=art-print
Life indeed was poor, nasty, brutish, and short for many. And so it must have been for the poor shepherds who watched their flocks in the cold Judean (Judaea, the southern part of ancient Palestine) night in the fields outside Bethlehem (Luke 2:8-20). And to them was announced the good news that the Messiah was born. The angels appeared and sang about divine glory and world peace. The angels went into Bethlehem and found the baby lying in a manger. Though the stable where Jesus was found was the humblest of places, the shepherd knew in their hearts that this was a special baby. They were convinced that what they saw when heaven opened up, and what they heard when the angels sang their tidings (news), were true.
PHOTO: Life indeed was poor, nasty, brutish, and short for many. And so it must have been for the poor shepherds who watched their flocks in the cold Judean (Judaea, the southern part of ancient Palestine) night in the fields outside Bethlehem (Luke 2:8-20). And to them was announced the good news that the Messiah was born. The angels appeared and sang about divine glory and world peace. The angels went into Bethlehem and found the baby lying in a manger. Though the stable where Jesus was found was the humblest of places, the shepherd knew in their hearts that this was a special baby. They were convinced that what they saw when heaven opened up, and what they heard when the angels sang their tidings (news), were true.
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https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn.vermontchristmasco.com/images/popup/vc1010.jpg
https://www.vermontchristmasco.com/product/3834/1000-piece-puzzles
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-angels-we-have-heard-on-high.html
The shepherds must have felt at home in the humble stable. As people who lived in poverty, it was the kind of place they were used to. Just as well that Jesus was not born in some fancy palace lined with gold and silver. They would not have gained entry. Even if allowed in, they would have felt terribly out of place. The more worldly among them would have had their eyes glued to the trappings of luxury instead of the baby. Just as well that Jesus was born in the stable of an overcrowded inn. It was a place that poor and simple people could relate to.
The shepherds returned to their flocks and to their poor lives with a new spirit. They were glorifying and praising God. Their difficult circumstances may not have changed much. But they were changed men.
PHOTO: The shepherds returned to their flocks and to their poor lives with a new spirit. They were glorifying and praising God. Their difficult circumstances may not have changed much. But they were changed men.
Picture posted by hugocolodedeus
Picture saved from Annapetrovich - Great cloud of witnesses
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https://www.pinterest.com/pin/633529872560257039/?lp=true
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-angels-from-realms-of-glory.html
While the world has moved on over the centuries, the human condition has remained the same. Slavery still exists in new forms. Mindless violence continues to terrorise many parts of the world. Events at the beginning of the new millennium (the 21st century began on 1 January 2001 and will continue through 31 December 2100. The 3rd millennium began with AD 2001 and will continue through AD 3000.), including the tragedies of September 11, 2001, the Bali bombing, the hostage taking in Moscow, and the sniper shootings in Maryland in 2002, among many others, have made us more aware that even in modern times, we live in a fragile and unpredictable world.
PHOTO: While the world has moved on over the centuries, the human condition has remained the same. Slavery still exists in new forms. Mindless violence continues to terrorise many parts of the world. Events at the beginning of the new millennium (the 21st century began on 1 January 2001 and will continue through 31 December 2100. The 3rd millennium began with AD 2001 and will continue through AD 3000.), including the tragedies of September 11, 2001, the Bali bombing, the hostage taking in Moscow, and the sniper shootings in Maryland in 2002, among many others, have made us more aware that even in modern times, we live in a fragile and unpredictable world.
Picture posted by Andrea Jones, Peak Experience Lab blog on 17 January 2024
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http://www.peakexperiencelab.com/blog/2017/1/15/5rn1yxf1g74muws51mx3bmek0yupz7
In spite of all the advances in science and technology, the depiction of ideal lifestyles in social media, and the feeling that we are in control of our lives, we know that we live in a messy world. An alien who spent a week on earth would probably come to that same conclusion.
The apostle John describes the condition of the world as "darkness" (John 1:5). Paul describes the human condition as "without hope and without God in the world" (Ephesians 2:12). Imagine reading our newspapers and watching the evening news, without hope and without God in the world. What a terrible and frightening thought!
PHOTO: The apostle John describes the condition of the world as "darkness" (John 1:5). Paul describes the human condition as "without hope and without God in the world" (Ephesians 2:12). Imagine reading our newspapers and watching the evening news, without hope and without God in the world. What a terrible and frightening thought!
Picture posted by Kerri Greenidge, The New York Times on 16 November 2020
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https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/16/books/review/south-to-freedom-alice-baumgartner-the-kidnapping-club-jonathan-daniel-wells.html
Jesus the Messiah came to a messy world. He was not afraid of the mess. He did not stay at a safe distance to deal with he mess. He could have tried to save us while remaining safely in heaven. But He came down: "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us" (John 1:14). He emptied himself and took the form of a servant. He became vulnerable. He touched lepers without gloves. He took on a life of poverty. He had no place to call His own. He did not even carry cash with Him. He experienced what it means to be homeless and poor. He experienced being beaten up violently. He was spat on and called names. He was stripped and hung on a rough cross, dying a public and humiliating death. He knew all about the human mess in this world. He entered the mess as the Messiah.
PHOTO: Jesus the Messiah came to a messy world. He was not afraid of the mess. He did not stay at a safe distance to deal with he mess. He could have tried to save us while remaining safely in heaven. But He came down: "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us" (John 1:14). He emptied himself and took the form of a servant. He became vulnerable. He touched lepers without gloves. He took on a life of poverty. He had no place to call His own. He did not even carry cash with Him. He experienced what it means to be homeless and poor. He experienced being beaten up violently. He was spat on and called names. He was stripped and hung on a rough cross, dying a public and humiliating death. He knew all about the human mess in this world. He entered the mess as the Messiah.
Picture posted by Vicky Sehgal
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDg3e_7RPvPbWa-8dEHLjDnnYoKflgT6Q_cs8vC6Ln4Wv5p31rHAbzKuwETVIwSe0Gag11-DljzpfX20SsaR50_8oii8SGnLGgz00niLISEyYCIKgdDW2zlKvlv8HhpBCsAw8R_E0zXBMTimjSb6uhVaqnS-QOH1oTRnv1lmjtq2cb2nEPPLyY0cZDZoU/s1472/09bc25e1284c95732e849379a73beadc.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/originals/09/bc/25/09bc25e1284c95732e849379a73beadc.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/3096293488932201/
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2024/04/reflection-walking-with-christ-if.html
Whenever we celebrate Christmas, our celebrations may be coloured by the pessimism and anxiety we see around us. Terrorism, economic uncertainty, worries about the future - we seem to be living in the era of bad news. The world is in a mess.
PHOTO: Whenever we celebrate Christmas, our celebrations may be coloured by the pessimism and anxiety we see around us. Terrorism, economic uncertainty, worries about the future - we seem to be living in the era of bad news. The world is in a mess.
Picture posted by Andy Pereira@gudmorder on 12 February 2024 at 10:09 am
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRds9OMB-g9lBcB1-dtq87U7UWa7X7N9Lcl5axsEO_9cB45NxJvVlTq1Xv2KDjFsFEGl_dW7G9AD6xLTKdeBqZJ1pMjlIzpPT-fIF-jTgWpkAA0ig-W-J__ICRaa3RjXizwJUUUVO0m7_DUvmpmwsr0bnIqK1aIjp6u8KH8Z4pWCSPP4pt9mPlYsC05ro/s1200/GGGhkUdaUAArVLU_1.png
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GGGhkUdaUAArVLU?format=jpg&name=medium
https://twitter.com/gudmorder/status/1756862977817694656
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2024/04/reflection-walking-with-christ-if.html
But it is precisely in these circumstances that we need to hear the good news afresh. In Christ, we have the Saviour, the Messiah. He knows all about the mess we human beings can get ourselves into. Looking at the mess without the Messiah turns our lives and our distant horizons into darkness. But when we look at the Messiah, then we see the light in the darkness. John declared: "The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it" (John 1:5). May we see the light shining in the darkness, and may God give us grace to understand this light.
https://static01.nyt.com/images/2020/11/12/books/00Greenidge2/00Greenridge-illo-jumbo.jpg?quality=75&auto=webp
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/16/books/review/south-to-freedom-alice-baumgartner-the-kidnapping-club-jonathan-daniel-wells.html
Jesus the Messiah came to a messy world. He was not afraid of the mess. He did not stay at a safe distance to deal with he mess. He could have tried to save us while remaining safely in heaven. But He came down: "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us" (John 1:14). He emptied himself and took the form of a servant. He became vulnerable. He touched lepers without gloves. He took on a life of poverty. He had no place to call His own. He did not even carry cash with Him. He experienced what it means to be homeless and poor. He experienced being beaten up violently. He was spat on and called names. He was stripped and hung on a rough cross, dying a public and humiliating death. He knew all about the human mess in this world. He entered the mess as the Messiah.
PHOTO: Jesus the Messiah came to a messy world. He was not afraid of the mess. He did not stay at a safe distance to deal with he mess. He could have tried to save us while remaining safely in heaven. But He came down: "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us" (John 1:14). He emptied himself and took the form of a servant. He became vulnerable. He touched lepers without gloves. He took on a life of poverty. He had no place to call His own. He did not even carry cash with Him. He experienced what it means to be homeless and poor. He experienced being beaten up violently. He was spat on and called names. He was stripped and hung on a rough cross, dying a public and humiliating death. He knew all about the human mess in this world. He entered the mess as the Messiah.
Picture posted by Vicky Sehgal
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDg3e_7RPvPbWa-8dEHLjDnnYoKflgT6Q_cs8vC6Ln4Wv5p31rHAbzKuwETVIwSe0Gag11-DljzpfX20SsaR50_8oii8SGnLGgz00niLISEyYCIKgdDW2zlKvlv8HhpBCsAw8R_E0zXBMTimjSb6uhVaqnS-QOH1oTRnv1lmjtq2cb2nEPPLyY0cZDZoU/s1472/09bc25e1284c95732e849379a73beadc.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/originals/09/bc/25/09bc25e1284c95732e849379a73beadc.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/3096293488932201/
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2024/04/reflection-walking-with-christ-if.html
Whenever we celebrate Christmas, our celebrations may be coloured by the pessimism and anxiety we see around us. Terrorism, economic uncertainty, worries about the future - we seem to be living in the era of bad news. The world is in a mess.
PHOTO: Whenever we celebrate Christmas, our celebrations may be coloured by the pessimism and anxiety we see around us. Terrorism, economic uncertainty, worries about the future - we seem to be living in the era of bad news. The world is in a mess.
Picture posted by Andy Pereira@gudmorder on 12 February 2024 at 10:09 am
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRds9OMB-g9lBcB1-dtq87U7UWa7X7N9Lcl5axsEO_9cB45NxJvVlTq1Xv2KDjFsFEGl_dW7G9AD6xLTKdeBqZJ1pMjlIzpPT-fIF-jTgWpkAA0ig-W-J__ICRaa3RjXizwJUUUVO0m7_DUvmpmwsr0bnIqK1aIjp6u8KH8Z4pWCSPP4pt9mPlYsC05ro/s1200/GGGhkUdaUAArVLU_1.png
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GGGhkUdaUAArVLU?format=jpg&name=medium
https://twitter.com/gudmorder/status/1756862977817694656
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2024/04/reflection-walking-with-christ-if.html
But it is precisely in these circumstances that we need to hear the good news afresh. In Christ, we have the Saviour, the Messiah. He knows all about the mess we human beings can get ourselves into. Looking at the mess without the Messiah turns our lives and our distant horizons into darkness. But when we look at the Messiah, then we see the light in the darkness. John declared: "The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it" (John 1:5). May we see the light shining in the darkness, and may God give us grace to understand this light.
PHOTO: But it is precisely in these circumstances that we need to hear the good news afresh. In Christ, we have the Saviour, the Messiah. He knows all about the mess we human beings can get ourselves into. Looking at the mess without the Messiah turns our lives and our distant horizons into darkness. But when we look at the Messiah, then we see the light in the darkness. John declared: "The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it" (John 1:5). May we see the light shining in the darkness, and may God give us grace to understand this light.
Picture posted by Nathan, co-founded Christ Community Church
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvDoFES2OOWhcqp57b14EVYkL1JP6PGsMF8wr_6Z29ULgM1lUfp9x3xaqVToEy0ps8xVpSsfas9L0ZxhJaSqh299B12w6lv2qKrQjTE1_MSCWW3Yp7GA7YGJHVujYozTGbP8yS7l-nQ1OYtr5v6v6Laa7sTMFMbEZElV-OsfkbXM7MUOkn_zgyPMHoQsY/s1024/jaggles._walking_on_a_dark_path_through_the_woods_with_a_torch__1047eb0e-4f0a-4e4f-8370-5a1e50573267.png
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https://www.biblelyfe.com/verse-of-the-day/1-john-1-5
When Mary, the mother of Jesus, saw all that was happening and heard all that was said, she "treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart" (Luke 2:19). Let us do the same every Christmas, quietly pondering this mystery: that God in His love has not abandoned us to perish in our mess, but has sent us the Messiah, in whom is all our hope. In Christ, we see the glory of God and in Him we have peace. Even in this messy world.
PHOTO: When Mary, the mother of Jesus, saw all that was happening and heard all that was said, she "treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart" (Luke 2:19). Let us do the same every Christmas, quietly pondering this mystery: that God in His love has not abandoned us to perish in our mess, but has sent us the Messiah, in whom is all our hope. In Christ, we see the glory of God and in Him we have peace. Even in this messy world.
Picture posted by thecandidcatholic on 17 July 2024
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https://www.instagram.com/thecandidcatholic/p/C2NGg_4rXv6/?img_index=8
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2024/04/reflection-walking-with-christ-boys-of.html
PHOTO: "Dear Lord, we pray that when we celebrate Christmas, we look at the Messiah and see the light in the darkness.
May we see the light shining in the darkness, and may God give us grace to understand this light.
When Mary, the mother of Jesus, saw all that was happening and heard all that was said, she 'treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart', especially the amazing things that the shepherds had said. May we do the same every Christmas, quietly pondering this mystery: that God in His love has not abandoned us to perish in our mess, but has sent us the Messiah, in whom is all our hope.
In Christ, may we see the glory of God and in Him we have peace. Even in this messy world.
Through Lord Jesus Christ we pray. Amen."
Picture posted by The Golden Arrow
Picture is enlarged by AI-powered image upscaler from depositphotos at https://depositphotos.com/upscaler.html?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_term=button2&utm_campaign=ntf_upscaler&utm_content=en&iterable_campaign=2704095&iterable_template=3704971
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Reflection - In The World - The Mess And The Messiah
Source (book): "Making All Things New", 52 Reflections to Challenge the Way You Live, Chapter 38, "The Mess And The Messiah", Page 201.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012
Source (book): "Making All Things New", 52 Reflections to Challenge the Way You Live, Chapter 38, "The Mess And The Messiah", Page 201.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012
"Faithful to the end", A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, @ 2014 by Robert M. Solomon
Reflection - Faithful to the end (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2017/06/reflection-faithful-to-end-links.html
"Finding rest for the soul" Responding to Jesus' Invitation in Matthew 11:28-29, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon
Reflection - Finding rest for the soul (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/10/reflection-finding-rest-for-soul-links.html
"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon
Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART I-III, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-i.html
"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon
Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART IV, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-iv.html
"Songs of Christmas", The Stories and Significance of 20 Well-Loved Carols, © 2018 by Robert M. Solomon
Reflection - Songs of Christmas (Links), posted on Friday, 24 April 2020
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2020/04/reflection-songs-of-christmas-links.html
Reflection - Faithful to the end (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2017/06/reflection-faithful-to-end-links.html
"Finding rest for the soul" Responding to Jesus' Invitation in Matthew 11:28-29, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon
Reflection - Finding rest for the soul (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/10/reflection-finding-rest-for-soul-links.html
"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon
Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART I-III, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-i.html
"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon
Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART IV, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-iv.html
"Songs of Christmas", The Stories and Significance of 20 Well-Loved Carols, © 2018 by Robert M. Solomon
Reflection - Songs of Christmas (Links), posted on Friday, 24 April 2020
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2020/04/reflection-songs-of-christmas-links.html
"Growing Old Gracefully", Following Jesus to the End, © 2019 by Robert M. Solomon
Reflection - Growing Old Gracefully, Part I - III (Links), posted on Wednesday, 09 December 2020
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2020/12/reflection-growing-old-gracefully-part.html
Reflection - Growing Old Gracefully, Part IV - V (Links), posted on Thursday, 22 April 2021
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2020/12/reflection-growing-old-gracefully-part_9.html
"Teach Us to Number Our Days", © 2008 by David Roper
Reflection - Number Our Days, Chapter 1 - 40 (Links), posted on Tuesday, 16 November 2021
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2021/11/reflection-number-our-days-chapter-1-40.html
Reflection - Number Our Days, Chapter 41 - 64 (Links), posted on Wednesday, 16 March 2022
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2022/03/reflection-number-our-days-chapter-41.html
"He Walks with Me - Devotions for Your Caregiving Journey with God", © 2018 by Our Daily Bread Ministries, Shelly Beach
Reflection - He Walks with Me (Links), posted on Tuesday, 16 August 2022
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2022/08/reflection-he-walks-with-me-links.html
Reflection - He Walks with Me (Links), posted on Tuesday, 16 August 2022https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2022/08/reflection-he-walks-with-me-links.html
"Classic Gem: Timeless Devotions from Our Daily Bread Authors", Copyright © 2021 by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Reflection - Classic Gem, Chapter 1 - 45 (Links), posted on 03 April 2023
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2023/04/reflection-classic-gem-chapter-1-45.html
"Classic Gem: Timeless Devotions from Our Daily Bread Authors", Copyright © 2021 by Our Daily Bread Ministries
Reflection - Classic Gem, Chapter 46 - 90 (Links), posted on Tuesday, 24 October 2023
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2023/10/reflection-classic-gem-chapter-46-90.html
Reflection - Making All Things New, Chapter 1 - 28 (Links), posted on Saturday, 04 August 2024
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2024/08/reflection-making-all-things-new.htmlReference
[1] From "Making All Things New", 52 Reflections to Challenge the Way You Live, Copyright @ 2022 by Robert M. Solomon, Chapter 38, "The Mess And The Messiah", Page 201.
[1a] See "Longevity in the Ancient World." Early Church History, https://earlychurchhistory.org/daily-life/longevity-in-the-ancient-world/
[2] Thomas Hobbes, Leviathan (1651), pt. 1, chap. 13. Pt. stands for 'Part' (Google).
[1a] See "Longevity in the Ancient World." Early Church History, https://earlychurchhistory.org/daily-life/longevity-in-the-ancient-world/
[2] Thomas Hobbes, Leviathan (1651), pt. 1, chap. 13. Pt. stands for 'Part' (Google).
Links
New International Version (NIV), Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Ephesians 2:12 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%202%3A12&version=NIV
John 1:5 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%201%3A5&version=NIV
John 1:14 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%201%3A14&version=NIV
Luke 2:8-20 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%202%3A8-20&version=NIV
Luke 2:19 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%202%3A19&version=NIV
Matthew 11:28-29 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+11%3A28-29&version=NIV
John 1:5 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%201%3A5&version=NIV
John 1:14 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%201%3A14&version=NIV
Luke 2:8-20 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%202%3A8-20&version=NIV
Luke 2:19 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%202%3A19&version=NIV
Matthew 11:28-29 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+11%3A28-29&version=NIV
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- https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn.vermontchristmasco.com/images/popup/vc1010.jpg
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- https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-angels-we-have-heard-on-high.html
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- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/633529872560257039/?lp=true
- https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-angels-from-realms-of-glory.html
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- http://www.peakexperiencelab.com/blog/2017/1/15/5rn1yxf1g74muws51mx3bmek0yupz7
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- https://static01.nyt.com/images/2020/11/12/books/00Greenidge2/00Greenridge-illo-jumbo.jpg?quality=75&auto=webp
- https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/16/books/review/south-to-freedom-alice-baumgartner-the-kidnapping-club-jonathan-daniel-wells.html
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- https://i.pinimg.com/originals/09/bc/25/09bc25e1284c95732e849379a73beadc.jpg
- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/3096293488932201/
- https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2024/04/reflection-walking-with-christ-if.html
- https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRds9OMB-g9lBcB1-dtq87U7UWa7X7N9Lcl5axsEO_9cB45NxJvVlTq1Xv2KDjFsFEGl_dW7G9AD6xLTKdeBqZJ1pMjlIzpPT-fIF-jTgWpkAA0ig-W-J__ICRaa3RjXizwJUUUVO0m7_DUvmpmwsr0bnIqK1aIjp6u8KH8Z4pWCSPP4pt9mPlYsC05ro/s1200/GGGhkUdaUAArVLU_1.png
- https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GGGhkUdaUAArVLU?format=jpg&name=medium
- https://twitter.com/gudmorder/status/1756862977817694656
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- https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5fcea218e5a6b12da691832e/3ee460b4-e779-4fe4-bc2d-75927a07bba1/jaggles._walking_on_a_dark_path_through_the_woods_with_a_torch__1047eb0e-4f0a-4e4f-8370-5a1e50573267.png
- https://www.biblelyfe.com/verse-of-the-day/1-john-1-5
- https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4uN58UnEsTVhjr278owicLt5OYC-bOY7wZWdoZEVTTvFEM0qHh7-jyvWeXivkQOfj620gApH8WsLGJe9O375f7rakqhVYjvynJzkD9gFoPGop98LiOBg-6lDW5bcSuDYuqrPoElVLeQBd_c87yM9DwQuSf-4ux8ocbtYXKpgCOxmvsIu2E3VfRZQuUS8/s800/420449376_18211273456263841_5833295782767661172_n.jpg
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- https://www.instagram.com/thecandidcatholic/p/C2NGg_4rXv6/?img_index=8
- https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2024/04/reflection-walking-with-christ-boys-of.html
- https://depositphotos.com/upscaler.html?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_term=button2&utm_campaign=ntf_upscaler&utm_content=en&iterable_campaign=2704095&iterable_template=3704971
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