To a far country

The new year is often a time when we make resolutions that have the intent of making us better people. We may be overly focused on this goal of being better people. Pastor Phil Kniss pointed out that the people mentioned in Matthew 2:1-12 likely did not make resolutions to be better people. Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the wise men are not remembered because they were better. They are remembered because they were observant and open to what God was doing. Pastor Phil said that one result of our technologies today is that we have no need to observe and reflect on meaning. Images and interpretations are fed to us. We have become short-sighted and reactive and perhaps even isolated in our homes. God invites us into the world, beyond borders, to be used by God. Let us be observant and open to God's work in the world!