This week I had a few quiet moments as I sat in the sanctuary for the last chapel of the fall quarter. Kathyleen Oliver's decorating handiwork had already begun to transform the platform into an invitation to embrace the Christmas season. There was a sense of peace as student led worship music began to fill the room making space for God's presence.

Then Jon Thornton, the Student Association President stood to read this familiar text from Matthew 11:28,29.

"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me-watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly." The Message, Eugene H. Peterson.

As Jon sat down the musicians transitioned to Christmas Carols out of the hymnal. And then it struck me. They have it right. They have it absolutely right. This is the invitation of Christmas. Instead of the frantic rush bloated with too much spending and too many parties, the baby Jesus, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords wants to teach us the "unforced rhythms of grace". The very reason He came is so that we may live "freely and lightly".

May this Jesus truly bring hope into your Christmas.

Mike Dunn (12/6/02)

Welcome | Who We Are | Sermons | Ministries | Resources | Worship | Contact Us
© 2001-2006 Pacific Union College SDA Church. All rights reserved.