Invitation
Many times this part of a book is called the “introduction.” I’ve decided instead to make mine the “invitation.”
Why you ask?
Oh, I’m so glad you did.
We live in a time when bigger is assumed to be better: bigger homes, bigger cars…bigger paychecks. Unfortunately, I’ve seen much more dissatisfaction, disappointment, and disillusionment when bigger doesn’t bring better—when more doesn’t result in greater happiness.
Many years ago I had the privilege of serving as an interim pastor at a Mennonite church in Ohio. In an effort to help me understand the congregation several members encouraged me to find a book they felt explained their choices and focus in life. The title was “Living on Less, And Liking It More.” The title not only intrigued me, but challenged me.
Three “tenets” of the Church of the Brethren include continuing the work of Jesus: peacefully, simply, together. Sandwiched there in the middle laid a concept ready to pounce on the faithful and push them into brand new territory.
Does God care about small stuff?
What does it mean to live simply?
How much is enough?
Do I really need all this stuff?
Thinking about Advent helped me arrive at a “simple” answer: Yes.
As we journey to Advent, we’re going to look some of those small, seemingly insignificant things and consider how important they are to our God.
I’m inviting you to think anew on the spiritually small things of life to gain a new understanding as to why God chose to begin his redemption plan with a baby.
But not just small things matter to God.
We’ll also be considering how important being honest is—especially when it means being vulnerable. God is concerned about honesty and sincerity in our faith journey. And coming as a baby demonstrates his willingness to be vulnerable. Can we do less?
Finally, we will also accept God’s challenge to give big. After all God gave us the greatest gift of all, Jesus.
So, join me: think small, be honest, and give big!
Pot of Manna 