Christ Our Shepherd Advent Calendar 2020
Change of Plans
December 23, 2020
Pastor Fritz
Dear Advent Travelers,
“Change of plans!” That phrase rings so consistently throughout Scripture’s Advent tales.
- As a young lady, Mary anticipates a lovely honeymoon, gently getting to know her new husband Joseph. “Change of plans!” The angels tell her she’ll be carrying and birthing the Savior of the world.
- Joseph is preparing his home for his new wife Mary and expanding his carpentry business. “Change of plans!” The angel provides a God-given mission requiring him to weather the rumors and scandalous pregnancy.
- Mary and Joseph accept the hard requirement of traveling to Bethlehem while 9 months pregnant for the emperor’s census. “Change of plans!” They won’t be staying in the inn as expected, but have to shift to a barn for their birthing quarters.
- The shepherds appreciate a quiet evening of rest having settled the sheep in a new field. “Change of plans!” A dazzling heavenly host rocks their world and inspires them to launch a midnight road trip.
Maybe in 2020 we can appreciate more than ever what it felt like for those Biblical figures to face that first “Change of plans!”-themed Christmas. With the pandemic, so much in our lives required cancellation or modification. Graduates walking across the stage to receive diplomas. Large families gathering for reunions. New destinations explored with travel. “Change of plans!”
Same goes for our dear congregation, Christ Our Shepherd. Our normal flow of worship, small groups, service projects and fellowships in 2020 faced history’s periodic requirement of adaptation. But the Holy Spirit’s plans never include cancellation, only modification. Along with Christian congregations across the world, COS has adapted and reformed in wonderfully exciting ways. Congratulations and thanks to all of you!
Same goes for our Christmas Eve services. “Change of plans!” Mary and Joseph had to pivot from the inn to the barn, but in that unexpected location was birthed a story that touches our hearts. So too we’re convinced the Holy Spirit will offer a very beautiful and unforgettable celebration for us tomorrow. Just as it worked out for Mary and Joseph, we know it will work out for 2020 Christians who worship tonight in unexpected ways. For COS this year, we enjoy not just one type of style option, but three (children/family, contemporary, traditional). And while we can’t worship inside our Sanctuary, we can gather in our festive parking lot or anywhere around the world that has access to the internet! Yes. “Change of plans!” But not a change from joy, worship, light and hope. These remain indeed!
Anticipating Joyous Christmas Eve Worship with You,
Pastor Fritz
