Emphasis Preaching Journal

Advent is a time of preparation. It seems almost incongruous to hear John the Baptizer's words and reflect on the mania of preparations around Christmas in our culture. The Baptizer says, "If you have two coats share one with one who has none." The ad in my newspaper proclaims boldly that I should have a pair of shoes to match each of my dresses, and that last year's coat just won't do this season.

"If you have food, share that also." This makes sense to many because, to make room for my Christmas goodies, I will need to give some of the old cans of food to the pantry.