Blog & Pastor Letters

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph lived in Nazareth as a family. The kind of family life they lived was normal considering the standard of other families at that time. We all know that the trade of Joseph was carpentry and Jesus must have assisted in great measures while growing up. Of course, Mary did her best to cement the life in the family. The gospel of Luke tells us that they attended the yearly festival in Jerusalem. While returning to Nazareth, Jesus got separated from his parents and they had to search for him. When they found him, they said, “Son, why have you done this to us? Your father and I have been looking for you with great anxiety.” This is the kind of anxiety you would expect from a parent whose child has been lost.

The prophecy of Isaiah concerning the birth of a son was a soothing message for the people of Israel. When we read Isaiah chapters 7 and 9, we can see indications of the Lord’s desire to restore joy and happiness to his people. In Isaiah 7: 13-14 he says, “Hear now, you house of David! Is it not enough to try the patience of humans? Will you try the patience of my God also? Therefore, the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel.” The name Immanuel means God is with us.

The question many people always ask at moments of great panic is, ‘What am I to do?’ But that is only for those who can summon courage and ask. At moments of great panic, many people are speechless because the situation has gone out of hand. In desperation we cling to any opinion from anyone around us to save the day. When there is no one to offer any opinion, we use our instinct, and so we act impulsively without damning the consequences. At that point, it is a matter of survival not morality that rules our subconscious.

I recently watched a YouTube video on Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany. The video was based on her contributions in uplifting the lives of Germans and other nations within Europe and elsewhere. Her country is enjoying an economic boom and her persona as woman speaks volumes to the world. The refugees from the Middle East, Africa and Eastern Europe are a challenge seeking the attention of the world. Germany is one place that the refugees yearn to find safe refuge.