Theological Friday: Reflections for the 3rd Sunday in Advent

The lectionary reading for the 3rd Sunday in Advent: Zephaniah 3:14-20; Isaiah 12:2-6 (Psalm); Philippians 4:4-7; Luke 3:7-18.

What shall we do?
Bear Fruit!
How?
Rejoice!
Sing!
Shout!
Give away.
Be content.
Share.

This weeks readings seem to be filled with actions, or with people wanting to know what action they should take.

I have long held that it is easier to "believe" than it is to "follow" or to "act," especially on that belief.

During this Holiday time we, as a culture, are reminded of those in need. We act in such ways to help them - to provide succor: giving trees; food baskets; and supporting our food, clothing, and homeless shelters. And we often do so with out any recognition - as a true gift. In that way we act like St. Nicholas. But what about the rest of the year?

How do these Sustainable Wednesdays encourage us to act?
Do they invite us into the Kingdom / Kin-dom of God? In what ways?

Again, the fiery John the Baptist reminds us that we are connected. And that while we wait for the one who will baptize us with fire, there are things to be done.

This is one of the reasons I placed the reflection about the global potluck as this week's Sustainable Wednesday reflection. What is enough? How much do we need? These are questions that you cannot answer for me, just as I cannot answer for you. Rather, each of us can point to examples of others who have reached a point of "enoughness." We can each remember times in our own lives in which we, even if briefly, reached "enoughness," too.

Next week's Sustainable Wednesday, I plan on highlighting some people who have been examples of living out a sustainable life-style. You can decide if they are reminders of the nearness of God's Kin-dom.

Blessed Be

Joel