The Throne Of David
Children's sermon
Illustration
Preaching
Sermon
Worship
Object:
(Originally published December 21, 2008)
The dominant figure in the news this week has been Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich, who was arrested on corruption charges, with wiretapped conversations indicating he was intent on auctioning off his appointment of Barack Obama's Senate replacement to the highest bidder. The media's fascination with Blagojevich is certainly understandable -- in addition to the low comedy contained in some of the excerpts released by federal prosecutors, it reinforces our cynicism about politicians (particularly those from Chicago) and puts a face on the eternal presence of human venality and sin. Politics is hardly the only place to find such arrogance and misconduct -- our financial system, already facing threats unseen for decades, was further rocked by revelations that former stock exchange chairman Bernard Madoff ran a giant Ponzi scheme that defrauded its investors.
In this installment of The Immediate Word, team member Robin Lostetter notes that all of us have a temptation to abuse power -- and that temptation manifests itself in many corners of life. But there's a stark contrast between human vanity and the humility of Mary described in this Sunday's readings. Our scripture passages issue a clear call for servant leadership, and though the vast majority of clergy (and politicians as well) engage in true servant ministry, there have been entirely too many examples (in every denomination) of those who have served themselves at the expense of their calling to serve others. Robin reminds us that because of her willingness to submit herself to God's will, Mary is a role model for us all. Team member Rick Gribble offers additional thoughts on how there is no need for us to impress God with the trappings of human power and influence, because he sees into the deepest recesses of our souls. Indeed, what God asks is that we just open our hearts to his will for our lives. Team member Steve McCutchan provides a brief meditation on the nativity, and concludes that the truly important things often come from people with the least importance in human society.
The Throne of David
by Robin Lostetter
2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16; Luke 1:26-38, 47-55
THE WORLD
Legend has it that in 55 BCE Cicero penned the following: "The budget should be balanced, the Treasury should be refilled, public debt should be reduced, the arrogance of officialdom should be tempered and controlled..." What? The arrogance of a Rod Blagojevich isn't twenty-first-century news?
Whether one attributes it to "original sin" or "total depravity" (John Calvin), it is evident throughout history that humans are destined frequently to lose the battle with temptation. Yet, somehow, when those in public life blatantly abuse their power, that human weakness seems to be magnified in the face of such great financial or personal gain.
Blagojevich's political maneuvering was shocking, even in the realm of fabled Chicago politics. And now we see another extreme in the world of finance: Bernard Madoff, former chairman of the NASDAQ stock exchange, was arrested December 11 for an alleged $50 billion Ponzi scheme. Rather than the tarnished political standing of those standing too close to Gov. Blagojevich, the fallout from Madoff's actions affects many innocents... from the individuals, banks, and brokerages who trusted Madoff to manage their portfolios to the recipients of grants that will not be made due to losses in funds such as the Lappin Foundation, the JEHT Foundation, and the Lautenberg Foundation.
THE WORD
David figures prominently in our readings from 2 Samuel and Luke. David, Yahweh's servant, is the same David who abused his power. Perhaps his most sensational offense was arranging for Uriah to be killed in battle, to clear the way for David to acquire Bathsheba. Yet we know that David was called back by Nathan on this and other occasions, and repented, submitting himself once again to God's will.
Ultimately, David's surrender to the God who was always present to him (2 Samuel 7:9) secured his reputation as the Lord's servant and as the head of the royal household from which Joseph would emerge centuries later.
Joseph is also a model of servanthood, acquiescing to the very dubious situation of his virgin fiancé being with child. All this, so that Mary's baby will be born within the house and lineage of David: David the shepherd, David the poet and songster, David the military leader... King David, the political leader.
CRAFTING THE SERMON
In this cast of colorful characters, Mary is the one who is favored by God and whose singular obedience is recorded in scripture.
I will admit, if we skip down a dozen verses to the Magnificat (the "Song of Mary"), that I have some reservations about the pure and compliant image we have of her. Isn't it just a bit vengeful to bring down the powerful and to send the rich away empty?
This past Sunday, as I listened to the choir singing "Come Ye Lofty, Come Ye Lowly" from Gustav Holst's "Christmas Day," I thought of Paul's words in Philippians (4:12): "I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty." Wealth and power, in and of themselves, are neutral. The sin, the corruption, comes in with the love of money, or with forgetting that political leadership has as its purpose serving the people. Paul illuminates this in verse 11: "Not that I am referring to being in need; for I have learned to be content with whatever I have."
In the remaining days of Advent, as the Christmas story unfolds once again in our sanctuaries, we see that it is Mary who is content. It is Joseph, and the shepherds. And it is the magi. These are the ones whom we are to emulate, as they prepare the way for Jesus of Nazareth. It is not the Blagojeviches or the Madoffs or the Herods, who continually strive for more power, more money, more renown. In their striving they cease to be servants of the people, but become rather the proud, the arrogant -- oppressors of the people.
Instead of attempting to manipulate all the pieces -- like David's idea of building the temple, like Peter wishing to build booths on the mountain -- might we take a step back, align ourselves with Mary and Joseph and the shepherds, and look with wonder at what God has already wrought. If we are quiet and listen in these brisk star-studded nights, perhaps we will hear an angel's whisper. May we have the grace to respond in humility, "Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word."
ANOTHER VIEW
There Is No Pretense with God
by Richard Gribble, CSC
During the days when God appointed judges to rule over the tribes of Israel, the Ark of the Covenant -- the sacred vessel which carried the Law, the Ten Commandments given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai -- was lost for a brief period. Without the most important symbol of their religion, the focal point of their worship, the Hebrews began to fall away from their faith. This situation was very distressing to the spiritual leaders of the people. They feared that if the Ark was not soon recovered or a new one built to replace it, there would soon be no faith in Israel.
So the high priest commissioned all artisans throughout the land to ply their trade to build a suitable replacement for the lost Ark. God himself would choose the proper vessel for His Law. Thus, every master craftsman in the nation set about the task of building a truly noble and worthy replacement for the Ark. The greatest and most famous to the totally unknown in the art world in Israel applied their talents, using the finest materials they could obtain.
When all the artisans had completed their work, the beautiful arks were placed on display in a large, open field. Some of the creations were the greatest works people had ever seen. Arks were constructed of wood, stone, bronze, silver, and even gold. Some boasted of inlaid ivory while others were ornate with carved figures. Others still were adorned with precious gems. God would have a difficult time choosing one suitable replacement from all these master creations.
The chief priest then began the selection process by standing behind each ark and casting his die to see which one the Lord would choose. One by one these beautiful works of art were rejected. Then the high priest stood behind Joseph's ark. Joseph was a poor carpenter with limited ability, but he was greatly devoted to God. His ark was quite simple -- a box of wood with hinges attached to a top covering. To the utter amazement of the chief priest and crowd, when the die was cast it came up positive. The people asked, "What does this mean? How could God choose such a simple vessel?" Others argued that this ark could not be chosen, for other nations would laugh at Israel if people saw the vessel which housed the Hebrew Law. So the people pressured the chief priest to cast his die again. This he did, with the same result. But the crowd insisted that he try a third time. As the die again turned positive, the voice of a prophet in the crowd spoke God's message: "What a wondrous ark," God said through the prophet. "My people always get lost in the beauty of what they do. With a simple and humble ark there will be less to distract them and they will think more about me!" (Story paraphrased from John Aurelio, Colors!: Stories of the Kingdom [Crossroad, 1993], pp. 68-69.)
This story of Joseph's Ark challenges us to ask a question. What is more important to us -- our appearance before God, or our attitude and openness to God? As we light the fourth candle on the Advent wreath and know from all indications in our world that the great event of Christmas is near, we must reflect upon our relationship with God and think more about attitudes than appearances.
We all remember from our reading of the Hebrew Scriptures, what Christians normally the Old Testament, that the great prophet Samuel was sent by God to Jesse to anoint from among his sons the next King of Israel. All involved in the process, including Samuel, surely believed that God would choose one of Jesse's elder sons, one who was mature and strong in stature and appearance. But God told Samuel to anoint David, described in the Scriptures as a youth and ruddy in complexion, to be the next king. God does not judge by appearance but looks into the heart. Now, in this week's reading, we hear how David as a mature man, with all his enemies conquered, suggests that he should build a special house for the Lord. God, however, has other plans and tells David through Nathan the prophet that there is no need to build a house for God. God has dwelled with His people from the outset in a tent. God is ever close if people will only open their eyes and perceive God's presence. There is no need to impress God with a palace.
The familiar gospel we hear today, the story of the Annunciation, describes how God chose one who was unimportant in the world to be the host receptacle for God incarnate. From all we know from Scripture there is no indication that Mary was greatly intelligent or ravishingly beautiful, although she certainly may have been. We do know, however, that she was totally open to the possibility of God in her life. Her great fiat, "be it done unto me according to your word," allowed salvation history to reach its climax in the birth of Jesus. God has again visited His people, if we only have the eyes to perceive him.
How do we perceive the presence of God? This is an important question to ponder, especially as we hear readings of God's plan and we know that the Lord is near. But we should be able to sense the presence of God in all things at all times.
God is certainly present in events. The Lord is present in the birth of a child, with all the wonder and beauty therein. God is present in the birth of nations, when tyranny falls and more democratic forms of government rise, as we have seen so dramatically demonstrated in the last 20 years in Eastern Europe and South Africa. God is present in the birth of ideas, which allow people to take greater command of a situation and determine better ways to solve difficult issues.
God is present in nature. God can be found in the birth of new lands created by volcanoes, earthquakes, and other natural phenomena. God is found in the terror of a hurricane-force wind and in the gentleness of a cool summer breeze. God is present in the dawn each morning and the dusk each evening.
We know that God is present in events and nature, but God is most profoundly present in people. St. Paul said it well in our second reading -- the mystery of the prophets is fulfilled in Jesus. God can come no closer than Emmanuel, a name that means "God is with us." God is present in us and those we encounter each day. Thus when we smile, God smiles. When we say a meaningful "Good morning," God says "Good morning." When we take the time to be present with another and be of assistance, it is God who gives assistance. God's closeness tells us that we must do our best to be an appropriate receptacle for the presence of God in our world. Let us prepare ourselves for the coming of Christ by reflecting upon our attitudes and the way we show the face of God to others. Let us present ourselves as a special gift to the newborn King of the Jews, to Jesus, who is our brother, friend, and Lord.
A VIEW FOR CHRISTMAS
A Word from the Least Important
by Stephen McCutchan
Luke 2:1-20
"When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them."
-- Luke 2:17-18
One of the striking things about the Christmas story is how many people were unaware of what was happening. The Emperor Augustus and all those who were busy making the powerful decisions that they assumed shaped the world missed what was a truly important event. They had no idea that anything significant was happening in that remote village in a forgotten corner of a third-rate colony of the Roman Empire. If the innkeeper had known what was happening, would he not have gladly given his own room to make space for the birth of Christ? One does not have to attribute cruelty to his actions, but simply a lack of awareness about what was important. Skip the angels for a moment, and think about the other people nearby. The shepherds, Luke tells us, "made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed." We do not know who the all were, but clearly they did not understand the significance of the event before the shepherds spoke. Even the mother of the child, Mary, appeared blissfully unaware. "Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart." It was only because the shepherds had heard words from beyond their world that they had at least a partial understanding of what had taken place.
The Christmas season is a good time to be reminded that God is often at work in the seemingly ordinary moments of life. When you think of the shepherds, do not think of the romantic picture we have created for them. In the Jewish community of the time, shepherds were not held in high respect. They were the ones who did what others avoided. They stayed out all night, slept on the cold ground, and smelled as a result of associating with all those sheep. A comparable person in our society might be a garbage collector or a low-level security guard. They were not the people you first thought of when you wanted to hold a party. Yet they were the ones to whom God communicated, and they were the ones who brought the message to others who would listen.
Perhaps one of the reasons that politicians, Wall Street brokers, corporate magnates, and leaders of important churches occasionally get themselves in trouble is that they are too enamored with the importance of the decisions they make. Except for the Bible, who remembers Caesar Augustus or any of the decisions that he made? There is a correcting humility in becoming aware that God communicated the most important news of the world to some ordinary people who are often overlooked by the decision-makers of society.
Think of the least important person in a congregation or in your own personal life. Or think of the most mundane task in the ministry of the church. Perhaps it is, like the work of the shepherds, a task that we count on being accomplished but not one that we pay much attention to. In what way might God be trying to speak to you through that which you often overlook? Could it be that the person or task you often overlook might be the very context through which God can speak of heavenly peace on earth? If we are to hear the word of God in our lives, it is important that we learn how and where to listen.
ILLUSTRATIONS
It is said that if power corrupts, then absolute power corrupts absolutely. Given some of the more egregious examples we've seen in our political life -- some from Boston City Council, several members of the US Senate, and most recently yet another governor of Illinois, that statement surely has a ring of truth to it. Now a baby is born in a manger; can we say that humble truth redeems, and humble truth spoken by God redeems absolutely? How sweet is the power of God's redeeming love when contrasted with a dark world of sin!
* * *
Hannah's song "My heart exults in God" (1 Samuel 2ff) is a Godly prelude to Mary's song (Luke 1:47-55) which we sing this week. Two very humble women -- one past the age of childbirth, the other only a virgin -- are quite surprised by God's activity in their lives. Sarah was so surprised by the child God gave her that she called his name "Laughter" (Isaac). God is so full of surprises in sacred history as well as in our own. As Cardinal Seunens quite simply puts it: "I believe in the surprises of the Holy Spirit."
* * *
Mary is asked to do the impossible for God, and God reminds her and us that with God, all things are possible. The saints remind of the same kind of thing: "Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible" (St. Francis of Assisi, founder of the Franciscan order, 1181-1226).
* * *
A young pastor was asked to entertain some very energetic youngsters. He decided to play a game called "Giants, Wizards, and Dwarfs." He told the children, "You must decide now if you will be a giant, wizard, or dwarf."
One little girl came up, pulled on the pastor's pants leg, and said, "Where do the mermaids stand?"
"There are no mermaids," the pastor countered.
"Oh, yes there are," she responded, "I am one of them." This little girl was not to be denied her identity. She knew who she was and was proud of it. So, my friends, where do the mermaids in our life stand -- those who do not fit neatly into our boxes and pigeonholes?
* * *
Many years ago the Clark family from Scotland had a dream to travel to the United States. It took many years to save for the trip, and finally they made reservations on a new ocean liner. The entire family was filled with anticipation and excitement about their trip, but a few days before their departure the youngest son was bitten by a dog. The local doctor quarantined the entire family for 14 days, fearful that the boy had rabies. The family's dream to travel to America was dashed.
Five days later, however, the tragic news spread throughout Scotland that the new ocean liner, the mighty Titanic, had struck an iceberg and sunk. Hundreds of people had died. This was the exact vessel the Clark family had been scheduled to take to America. When Mr. Clark heard the news he gave thanks to God for saving his family, transforming a great disappointment into a great blessing.
* * *
The angel Gabriel thought that Mary was hardly old enough to have a child, let alone this child. He had been entrusted with a message to give to her and he gave it. He told her what the child was to be named, who he was to be, and something about the mystery that would come upon her. He told her, "You must not be afraid, Mary." After he said this, he only hoped she would not notice that beneath his great golden wings he himself was trembling with fear to think of the whole future of creation now rested on the answer of one young girl.
* * *
In reflecting on the problems of power in government, it is helpful to recall Samuel's instructions to Israel when they wanted a king:
So Samuel reported all the words of the Lord to the people who were asking him for a king. He said, "These will be the ways of the king who will reign over you: he will take your sons and appoint them to his chariots and to be his horsemen, and to run before his chariots; and he will appoint for himself commanders of thousands and commanders of fifties, and some to plow his ground and to reap his harvest, and to make his implements of war and the equipment of his chariots. He will take your daughters to be perfumers and cooks and bakers. He will take the best of your fields and vineyards and olive orchards and give them to his courtiers. He will take one-tenth of your grain and of your vineyards and give it to his officers and his courtiers. He will take your male and female slaves, and the best of your cattle and donkeys, and put them to his work. He will take one-tenth of your flocks, and you shall be his slaves. And in that day you will cry out because of your king, whom you have chosen for yourselves; but the Lord will not answer you in that day" (1 Samuel 8:10-18).
People of faith need to be realistic about those they choose to govern and the seductive power of being chosen.
* * *
In reflecting on the arrogance of power that creates problems, it is good to recall the incident following Solomon's death:
Then King Rehoboam took counsel with the older men who had attended his father Solomon while he was still alive, saying, "How do you advise me to answer this people?" They answered him, "If you will be a servant to this people today and serve them, and speak good words to them when you answer them, then they will be your servants forever." But he disregarded the advice that the older men gave him, and consulted with the young men who had grown up with him and now attended him. He said to them, "What do you advise that we answer this people who have said to me, 'Lighten the yoke that your father put on us'?" The young men who had grown up with him said to him, "Thus you should say to this people who spoke to you, 'Your father made our yoke heavy, but you must lighten it for us'; thus you should say to them, 'My little finger is thicker than my father's loins. Now, whereas my father laid on you a heavy yoke, I will add to your yoke. My father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions' " (1 Kings 12:6-11).
The truth of the Christian faith, reflected in the life of Jesus, is that those who rule, rule best as servants of the people.
* * *
In contrast to the apparent arrogance displayed by the governor of Illinois, it is helpful for Christians to look for the model of servanthood reflected in Jesus' life. We see it clearly described in Philippians:
If then there is any encouragement in Christ, any consolation from love, any sharing in the Spirit, any compassion and sympathy, make my joy complete: be of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others. Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death -- even death on a cross. Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:1-11).
While we don't look for the messiah in our political candidates, perhaps we could look for the characteristics of humility and a willingness to serve others, even at a cost to themselves.
WORSHIP RESOURCES
by George Reed
Call to Worship
Leader: My soul magnifies the Lord.
People: My spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
Leader: God's mercy is for those who are in awe of our God.
People: God has scattered the proud,
Leader: God has brought down the powerful,
People: God has filled the empty with good things.
OR
Leader: God calls us in humility to come and worship.
People: We stand before God in the truth of who we are.
Leader: We come as sinners who have failed.
People: We come as the image of God who will triumph.
Leader: We come as saints and sinners together.
People: We come as we are to worship our God.
OR
Leader: God invites us to worship the Eternal One.
People: Like David, we want to decide how best to worship.
Leader: God invites us to live under the reign of Christ.
People: Like Mary, we wonder how that can come about.
Leader: God invites us to find joy and life in obedience.
People: Like Mary, let us say "Yes" to our God and Savior.
Hymns and Songs
"Tell Out, My Soul"
"My Soul Gives Glory To My God"
"By Gracious Powers"
"We Utter Our Cry"
"Seek Ye First"
Prayer for the Day / Collect
O God who made your servant David to reign as king for your people: Help us to seek to be your faithful servants rather than to be "rulers" over others; through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.
OR
O God who made your servant Mary to be the Godbearer for your people: Help us to seek to be your faithful servants rather than to be "rulers" over others; through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.
OR
We hear of David and of Mary who were both willing to give up their plans in order to be your faithful servants. Help us to hold onto our ambitions a little less tightly and to cling to you more. Amen.
Prayer of Confession
Leader: We have been called to be faithful servants of God. Let us confess to God and before one another the ways in which we have neglected that call.
People: We confess that when we hear the story of David laying aside his plans to build a temple and Mary willingly taking on the task of bearing the Savior, we are not so ready to give up our plans to take on the tasks you set before us, O God. We don't mind serving you when it fits into our plans and fits on our calendars. But when you ask us to give up our time and to serve you by serving the lowly, we find ourselves just a little too busy doing the things that we have decided are important. Help us with Mary and David to listen to your counsel and to be willing to become your faithful servants. Amen.
Leader: God is always ready to receive those who are willing to change and to be changed. Know that God loves you, forgives you, and will give you this week a chance live out your life of service to God more faithfully.
Prayers of the People (and the Lord's Prayer)
We worship and adore you, O God, because you are the One who seeks us out so that we may participate in your great plans for all creation. You call us your children, your friends, your beloved. You call us to be your servants as you take the basin and towel and serve us and others.
(The following paragraph may be used if a separate prayer of confession has not been used.)
We confess that when we hear the story of David laying aside his plans to build a temple and Mary willingly taking on the task of bearing the Savior, we are not so ready to give up our plans to take on the tasks you set before us, O God. We don't mind serving you when it fits into our plans and fits on our calendars. But when you ask us to give up our time and to serve you by serving the lowly, we find ourselves just a little too busy doing the things that we have decided are important. Help us with Mary and David to listen to your counsel and to be willing to become your faithful servants.
We give you thanks for all the blessings we have received from your bountiful hand. You have given us a creation to play in that is wondrous and beautiful. You have given us one another to love and be loved. You have given us yourself in your Son Jesus Christ.
(Other thanksgivings may be offered.)
The pains, cares, and worries of the world we offer to your great love and kindness. You have given us strength and blessing in the midst of our difficult times, and so we confidently offer those who are on our hearts to you. We know that your love and presence is being offered to them as well.
(Other intercessions may be offered.)
All these things we ask in the Name of our Savior Jesus Christ, who taught us to pray together, saying:
Our Father . . .
(Or if the Lord's Prayer is not used at this point in the service.)
All this we ask in the Name of the Blessed and Holy Trinity. Amen.
CHILDREN'S SERMON
Gabriel -- God's messenger
Luke 1:26-38
Object: A Christmas tree angel or nativity set angel
Good morning! I brought an angel with me today to tell a wonderful story about God. God doesn't work the way we work. We often see people based on their importance. We think some people are very important and we treat them special. Can you tell me about some people we consider very important? (give the children an opportunity to tell about important people) We treat kings and presidents in special ways that we don't treat others.
Sometimes when a person is very poor or doesn't have a really good job, people are tempted to treat them as if they are not as important as others. That's the way many people are. It was true a long time ago as well.
Many years ago in a little town -- which itself was not important -- there lived a young woman. Many would say she was not important at all. She was poor and she had no important job. She did not have a high position, such as being a princess or queen. Many people probably thought this poor woman was not at all important. Does anybody know this woman's name? (let them answer) Her name was Mary and she lived in Nazareth.
Others didn't think much of Mary from the unimportant town of Nazareth, but God thought she was very important. God sent a messenger to this woman. The messenger's name was Gabriel. Gabriel was one of these -- an angel. Does anyone know what God wanted Gabriel to say to Mary? (let them answer)
God told Mary she was to have the baby Jesus. That was important. That was the most important thing anyone could ever do.
One thing I think this story tells us is that every person is precious to God. God could have chosen anyone to have Jesus, but God chose a person everyone else thought not important. Now we consider Mary very important, but she was important to God long before anyone else thought she was important.
Do you know what? YOU also are important to God.
Prayer: Dearest God: Thank you for making us important people. Amen.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
The Immediate Word, December 21, 2008, issue.
Copyright 2008 by CSS Publishing Company, Inc., Lima, Ohio.
All rights reserved. Subscribers to The Immediate Word service may print and use this material as it was intended in sermons and in worship and classroom settings only. No additional permission is required from the publisher for such use by subscribers only. Inquiries should be addressed to permissions@csspub.com or to Permissions, CSS Publishing Company, Inc., 517 South Main Street, Lima, Ohio 45804.
The dominant figure in the news this week has been Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich, who was arrested on corruption charges, with wiretapped conversations indicating he was intent on auctioning off his appointment of Barack Obama's Senate replacement to the highest bidder. The media's fascination with Blagojevich is certainly understandable -- in addition to the low comedy contained in some of the excerpts released by federal prosecutors, it reinforces our cynicism about politicians (particularly those from Chicago) and puts a face on the eternal presence of human venality and sin. Politics is hardly the only place to find such arrogance and misconduct -- our financial system, already facing threats unseen for decades, was further rocked by revelations that former stock exchange chairman Bernard Madoff ran a giant Ponzi scheme that defrauded its investors.
In this installment of The Immediate Word, team member Robin Lostetter notes that all of us have a temptation to abuse power -- and that temptation manifests itself in many corners of life. But there's a stark contrast between human vanity and the humility of Mary described in this Sunday's readings. Our scripture passages issue a clear call for servant leadership, and though the vast majority of clergy (and politicians as well) engage in true servant ministry, there have been entirely too many examples (in every denomination) of those who have served themselves at the expense of their calling to serve others. Robin reminds us that because of her willingness to submit herself to God's will, Mary is a role model for us all. Team member Rick Gribble offers additional thoughts on how there is no need for us to impress God with the trappings of human power and influence, because he sees into the deepest recesses of our souls. Indeed, what God asks is that we just open our hearts to his will for our lives. Team member Steve McCutchan provides a brief meditation on the nativity, and concludes that the truly important things often come from people with the least importance in human society.
The Throne of David
by Robin Lostetter
2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16; Luke 1:26-38, 47-55
THE WORLD
Legend has it that in 55 BCE Cicero penned the following: "The budget should be balanced, the Treasury should be refilled, public debt should be reduced, the arrogance of officialdom should be tempered and controlled..." What? The arrogance of a Rod Blagojevich isn't twenty-first-century news?
Whether one attributes it to "original sin" or "total depravity" (John Calvin), it is evident throughout history that humans are destined frequently to lose the battle with temptation. Yet, somehow, when those in public life blatantly abuse their power, that human weakness seems to be magnified in the face of such great financial or personal gain.
Blagojevich's political maneuvering was shocking, even in the realm of fabled Chicago politics. And now we see another extreme in the world of finance: Bernard Madoff, former chairman of the NASDAQ stock exchange, was arrested December 11 for an alleged $50 billion Ponzi scheme. Rather than the tarnished political standing of those standing too close to Gov. Blagojevich, the fallout from Madoff's actions affects many innocents... from the individuals, banks, and brokerages who trusted Madoff to manage their portfolios to the recipients of grants that will not be made due to losses in funds such as the Lappin Foundation, the JEHT Foundation, and the Lautenberg Foundation.
THE WORD
David figures prominently in our readings from 2 Samuel and Luke. David, Yahweh's servant, is the same David who abused his power. Perhaps his most sensational offense was arranging for Uriah to be killed in battle, to clear the way for David to acquire Bathsheba. Yet we know that David was called back by Nathan on this and other occasions, and repented, submitting himself once again to God's will.
Ultimately, David's surrender to the God who was always present to him (2 Samuel 7:9) secured his reputation as the Lord's servant and as the head of the royal household from which Joseph would emerge centuries later.
Joseph is also a model of servanthood, acquiescing to the very dubious situation of his virgin fiancé being with child. All this, so that Mary's baby will be born within the house and lineage of David: David the shepherd, David the poet and songster, David the military leader... King David, the political leader.
CRAFTING THE SERMON
In this cast of colorful characters, Mary is the one who is favored by God and whose singular obedience is recorded in scripture.
I will admit, if we skip down a dozen verses to the Magnificat (the "Song of Mary"), that I have some reservations about the pure and compliant image we have of her. Isn't it just a bit vengeful to bring down the powerful and to send the rich away empty?
This past Sunday, as I listened to the choir singing "Come Ye Lofty, Come Ye Lowly" from Gustav Holst's "Christmas Day," I thought of Paul's words in Philippians (4:12): "I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty." Wealth and power, in and of themselves, are neutral. The sin, the corruption, comes in with the love of money, or with forgetting that political leadership has as its purpose serving the people. Paul illuminates this in verse 11: "Not that I am referring to being in need; for I have learned to be content with whatever I have."
In the remaining days of Advent, as the Christmas story unfolds once again in our sanctuaries, we see that it is Mary who is content. It is Joseph, and the shepherds. And it is the magi. These are the ones whom we are to emulate, as they prepare the way for Jesus of Nazareth. It is not the Blagojeviches or the Madoffs or the Herods, who continually strive for more power, more money, more renown. In their striving they cease to be servants of the people, but become rather the proud, the arrogant -- oppressors of the people.
Instead of attempting to manipulate all the pieces -- like David's idea of building the temple, like Peter wishing to build booths on the mountain -- might we take a step back, align ourselves with Mary and Joseph and the shepherds, and look with wonder at what God has already wrought. If we are quiet and listen in these brisk star-studded nights, perhaps we will hear an angel's whisper. May we have the grace to respond in humility, "Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word."
ANOTHER VIEW
There Is No Pretense with God
by Richard Gribble, CSC
During the days when God appointed judges to rule over the tribes of Israel, the Ark of the Covenant -- the sacred vessel which carried the Law, the Ten Commandments given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai -- was lost for a brief period. Without the most important symbol of their religion, the focal point of their worship, the Hebrews began to fall away from their faith. This situation was very distressing to the spiritual leaders of the people. They feared that if the Ark was not soon recovered or a new one built to replace it, there would soon be no faith in Israel.
So the high priest commissioned all artisans throughout the land to ply their trade to build a suitable replacement for the lost Ark. God himself would choose the proper vessel for His Law. Thus, every master craftsman in the nation set about the task of building a truly noble and worthy replacement for the Ark. The greatest and most famous to the totally unknown in the art world in Israel applied their talents, using the finest materials they could obtain.
When all the artisans had completed their work, the beautiful arks were placed on display in a large, open field. Some of the creations were the greatest works people had ever seen. Arks were constructed of wood, stone, bronze, silver, and even gold. Some boasted of inlaid ivory while others were ornate with carved figures. Others still were adorned with precious gems. God would have a difficult time choosing one suitable replacement from all these master creations.
The chief priest then began the selection process by standing behind each ark and casting his die to see which one the Lord would choose. One by one these beautiful works of art were rejected. Then the high priest stood behind Joseph's ark. Joseph was a poor carpenter with limited ability, but he was greatly devoted to God. His ark was quite simple -- a box of wood with hinges attached to a top covering. To the utter amazement of the chief priest and crowd, when the die was cast it came up positive. The people asked, "What does this mean? How could God choose such a simple vessel?" Others argued that this ark could not be chosen, for other nations would laugh at Israel if people saw the vessel which housed the Hebrew Law. So the people pressured the chief priest to cast his die again. This he did, with the same result. But the crowd insisted that he try a third time. As the die again turned positive, the voice of a prophet in the crowd spoke God's message: "What a wondrous ark," God said through the prophet. "My people always get lost in the beauty of what they do. With a simple and humble ark there will be less to distract them and they will think more about me!" (Story paraphrased from John Aurelio, Colors!: Stories of the Kingdom [Crossroad, 1993], pp. 68-69.)
This story of Joseph's Ark challenges us to ask a question. What is more important to us -- our appearance before God, or our attitude and openness to God? As we light the fourth candle on the Advent wreath and know from all indications in our world that the great event of Christmas is near, we must reflect upon our relationship with God and think more about attitudes than appearances.
We all remember from our reading of the Hebrew Scriptures, what Christians normally the Old Testament, that the great prophet Samuel was sent by God to Jesse to anoint from among his sons the next King of Israel. All involved in the process, including Samuel, surely believed that God would choose one of Jesse's elder sons, one who was mature and strong in stature and appearance. But God told Samuel to anoint David, described in the Scriptures as a youth and ruddy in complexion, to be the next king. God does not judge by appearance but looks into the heart. Now, in this week's reading, we hear how David as a mature man, with all his enemies conquered, suggests that he should build a special house for the Lord. God, however, has other plans and tells David through Nathan the prophet that there is no need to build a house for God. God has dwelled with His people from the outset in a tent. God is ever close if people will only open their eyes and perceive God's presence. There is no need to impress God with a palace.
The familiar gospel we hear today, the story of the Annunciation, describes how God chose one who was unimportant in the world to be the host receptacle for God incarnate. From all we know from Scripture there is no indication that Mary was greatly intelligent or ravishingly beautiful, although she certainly may have been. We do know, however, that she was totally open to the possibility of God in her life. Her great fiat, "be it done unto me according to your word," allowed salvation history to reach its climax in the birth of Jesus. God has again visited His people, if we only have the eyes to perceive him.
How do we perceive the presence of God? This is an important question to ponder, especially as we hear readings of God's plan and we know that the Lord is near. But we should be able to sense the presence of God in all things at all times.
God is certainly present in events. The Lord is present in the birth of a child, with all the wonder and beauty therein. God is present in the birth of nations, when tyranny falls and more democratic forms of government rise, as we have seen so dramatically demonstrated in the last 20 years in Eastern Europe and South Africa. God is present in the birth of ideas, which allow people to take greater command of a situation and determine better ways to solve difficult issues.
God is present in nature. God can be found in the birth of new lands created by volcanoes, earthquakes, and other natural phenomena. God is found in the terror of a hurricane-force wind and in the gentleness of a cool summer breeze. God is present in the dawn each morning and the dusk each evening.
We know that God is present in events and nature, but God is most profoundly present in people. St. Paul said it well in our second reading -- the mystery of the prophets is fulfilled in Jesus. God can come no closer than Emmanuel, a name that means "God is with us." God is present in us and those we encounter each day. Thus when we smile, God smiles. When we say a meaningful "Good morning," God says "Good morning." When we take the time to be present with another and be of assistance, it is God who gives assistance. God's closeness tells us that we must do our best to be an appropriate receptacle for the presence of God in our world. Let us prepare ourselves for the coming of Christ by reflecting upon our attitudes and the way we show the face of God to others. Let us present ourselves as a special gift to the newborn King of the Jews, to Jesus, who is our brother, friend, and Lord.
A VIEW FOR CHRISTMAS
A Word from the Least Important
by Stephen McCutchan
Luke 2:1-20
"When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them."
-- Luke 2:17-18
One of the striking things about the Christmas story is how many people were unaware of what was happening. The Emperor Augustus and all those who were busy making the powerful decisions that they assumed shaped the world missed what was a truly important event. They had no idea that anything significant was happening in that remote village in a forgotten corner of a third-rate colony of the Roman Empire. If the innkeeper had known what was happening, would he not have gladly given his own room to make space for the birth of Christ? One does not have to attribute cruelty to his actions, but simply a lack of awareness about what was important. Skip the angels for a moment, and think about the other people nearby. The shepherds, Luke tells us, "made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed." We do not know who the all were, but clearly they did not understand the significance of the event before the shepherds spoke. Even the mother of the child, Mary, appeared blissfully unaware. "Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart." It was only because the shepherds had heard words from beyond their world that they had at least a partial understanding of what had taken place.
The Christmas season is a good time to be reminded that God is often at work in the seemingly ordinary moments of life. When you think of the shepherds, do not think of the romantic picture we have created for them. In the Jewish community of the time, shepherds were not held in high respect. They were the ones who did what others avoided. They stayed out all night, slept on the cold ground, and smelled as a result of associating with all those sheep. A comparable person in our society might be a garbage collector or a low-level security guard. They were not the people you first thought of when you wanted to hold a party. Yet they were the ones to whom God communicated, and they were the ones who brought the message to others who would listen.
Perhaps one of the reasons that politicians, Wall Street brokers, corporate magnates, and leaders of important churches occasionally get themselves in trouble is that they are too enamored with the importance of the decisions they make. Except for the Bible, who remembers Caesar Augustus or any of the decisions that he made? There is a correcting humility in becoming aware that God communicated the most important news of the world to some ordinary people who are often overlooked by the decision-makers of society.
Think of the least important person in a congregation or in your own personal life. Or think of the most mundane task in the ministry of the church. Perhaps it is, like the work of the shepherds, a task that we count on being accomplished but not one that we pay much attention to. In what way might God be trying to speak to you through that which you often overlook? Could it be that the person or task you often overlook might be the very context through which God can speak of heavenly peace on earth? If we are to hear the word of God in our lives, it is important that we learn how and where to listen.
ILLUSTRATIONS
It is said that if power corrupts, then absolute power corrupts absolutely. Given some of the more egregious examples we've seen in our political life -- some from Boston City Council, several members of the US Senate, and most recently yet another governor of Illinois, that statement surely has a ring of truth to it. Now a baby is born in a manger; can we say that humble truth redeems, and humble truth spoken by God redeems absolutely? How sweet is the power of God's redeeming love when contrasted with a dark world of sin!
* * *
Hannah's song "My heart exults in God" (1 Samuel 2ff) is a Godly prelude to Mary's song (Luke 1:47-55) which we sing this week. Two very humble women -- one past the age of childbirth, the other only a virgin -- are quite surprised by God's activity in their lives. Sarah was so surprised by the child God gave her that she called his name "Laughter" (Isaac). God is so full of surprises in sacred history as well as in our own. As Cardinal Seunens quite simply puts it: "I believe in the surprises of the Holy Spirit."
* * *
Mary is asked to do the impossible for God, and God reminds her and us that with God, all things are possible. The saints remind of the same kind of thing: "Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible" (St. Francis of Assisi, founder of the Franciscan order, 1181-1226).
* * *
A young pastor was asked to entertain some very energetic youngsters. He decided to play a game called "Giants, Wizards, and Dwarfs." He told the children, "You must decide now if you will be a giant, wizard, or dwarf."
One little girl came up, pulled on the pastor's pants leg, and said, "Where do the mermaids stand?"
"There are no mermaids," the pastor countered.
"Oh, yes there are," she responded, "I am one of them." This little girl was not to be denied her identity. She knew who she was and was proud of it. So, my friends, where do the mermaids in our life stand -- those who do not fit neatly into our boxes and pigeonholes?
* * *
Many years ago the Clark family from Scotland had a dream to travel to the United States. It took many years to save for the trip, and finally they made reservations on a new ocean liner. The entire family was filled with anticipation and excitement about their trip, but a few days before their departure the youngest son was bitten by a dog. The local doctor quarantined the entire family for 14 days, fearful that the boy had rabies. The family's dream to travel to America was dashed.
Five days later, however, the tragic news spread throughout Scotland that the new ocean liner, the mighty Titanic, had struck an iceberg and sunk. Hundreds of people had died. This was the exact vessel the Clark family had been scheduled to take to America. When Mr. Clark heard the news he gave thanks to God for saving his family, transforming a great disappointment into a great blessing.
* * *
The angel Gabriel thought that Mary was hardly old enough to have a child, let alone this child. He had been entrusted with a message to give to her and he gave it. He told her what the child was to be named, who he was to be, and something about the mystery that would come upon her. He told her, "You must not be afraid, Mary." After he said this, he only hoped she would not notice that beneath his great golden wings he himself was trembling with fear to think of the whole future of creation now rested on the answer of one young girl.
* * *
In reflecting on the problems of power in government, it is helpful to recall Samuel's instructions to Israel when they wanted a king:
So Samuel reported all the words of the Lord to the people who were asking him for a king. He said, "These will be the ways of the king who will reign over you: he will take your sons and appoint them to his chariots and to be his horsemen, and to run before his chariots; and he will appoint for himself commanders of thousands and commanders of fifties, and some to plow his ground and to reap his harvest, and to make his implements of war and the equipment of his chariots. He will take your daughters to be perfumers and cooks and bakers. He will take the best of your fields and vineyards and olive orchards and give them to his courtiers. He will take one-tenth of your grain and of your vineyards and give it to his officers and his courtiers. He will take your male and female slaves, and the best of your cattle and donkeys, and put them to his work. He will take one-tenth of your flocks, and you shall be his slaves. And in that day you will cry out because of your king, whom you have chosen for yourselves; but the Lord will not answer you in that day" (1 Samuel 8:10-18).
People of faith need to be realistic about those they choose to govern and the seductive power of being chosen.
* * *
In reflecting on the arrogance of power that creates problems, it is good to recall the incident following Solomon's death:
Then King Rehoboam took counsel with the older men who had attended his father Solomon while he was still alive, saying, "How do you advise me to answer this people?" They answered him, "If you will be a servant to this people today and serve them, and speak good words to them when you answer them, then they will be your servants forever." But he disregarded the advice that the older men gave him, and consulted with the young men who had grown up with him and now attended him. He said to them, "What do you advise that we answer this people who have said to me, 'Lighten the yoke that your father put on us'?" The young men who had grown up with him said to him, "Thus you should say to this people who spoke to you, 'Your father made our yoke heavy, but you must lighten it for us'; thus you should say to them, 'My little finger is thicker than my father's loins. Now, whereas my father laid on you a heavy yoke, I will add to your yoke. My father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions' " (1 Kings 12:6-11).
The truth of the Christian faith, reflected in the life of Jesus, is that those who rule, rule best as servants of the people.
* * *
In contrast to the apparent arrogance displayed by the governor of Illinois, it is helpful for Christians to look for the model of servanthood reflected in Jesus' life. We see it clearly described in Philippians:
If then there is any encouragement in Christ, any consolation from love, any sharing in the Spirit, any compassion and sympathy, make my joy complete: be of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others. Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death -- even death on a cross. Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:1-11).
While we don't look for the messiah in our political candidates, perhaps we could look for the characteristics of humility and a willingness to serve others, even at a cost to themselves.
WORSHIP RESOURCES
by George Reed
Call to Worship
Leader: My soul magnifies the Lord.
People: My spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
Leader: God's mercy is for those who are in awe of our God.
People: God has scattered the proud,
Leader: God has brought down the powerful,
People: God has filled the empty with good things.
OR
Leader: God calls us in humility to come and worship.
People: We stand before God in the truth of who we are.
Leader: We come as sinners who have failed.
People: We come as the image of God who will triumph.
Leader: We come as saints and sinners together.
People: We come as we are to worship our God.
OR
Leader: God invites us to worship the Eternal One.
People: Like David, we want to decide how best to worship.
Leader: God invites us to live under the reign of Christ.
People: Like Mary, we wonder how that can come about.
Leader: God invites us to find joy and life in obedience.
People: Like Mary, let us say "Yes" to our God and Savior.
Hymns and Songs
"Tell Out, My Soul"
"My Soul Gives Glory To My God"
"By Gracious Powers"
"We Utter Our Cry"
"Seek Ye First"
Prayer for the Day / Collect
O God who made your servant David to reign as king for your people: Help us to seek to be your faithful servants rather than to be "rulers" over others; through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.
OR
O God who made your servant Mary to be the Godbearer for your people: Help us to seek to be your faithful servants rather than to be "rulers" over others; through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.
OR
We hear of David and of Mary who were both willing to give up their plans in order to be your faithful servants. Help us to hold onto our ambitions a little less tightly and to cling to you more. Amen.
Prayer of Confession
Leader: We have been called to be faithful servants of God. Let us confess to God and before one another the ways in which we have neglected that call.
People: We confess that when we hear the story of David laying aside his plans to build a temple and Mary willingly taking on the task of bearing the Savior, we are not so ready to give up our plans to take on the tasks you set before us, O God. We don't mind serving you when it fits into our plans and fits on our calendars. But when you ask us to give up our time and to serve you by serving the lowly, we find ourselves just a little too busy doing the things that we have decided are important. Help us with Mary and David to listen to your counsel and to be willing to become your faithful servants. Amen.
Leader: God is always ready to receive those who are willing to change and to be changed. Know that God loves you, forgives you, and will give you this week a chance live out your life of service to God more faithfully.
Prayers of the People (and the Lord's Prayer)
We worship and adore you, O God, because you are the One who seeks us out so that we may participate in your great plans for all creation. You call us your children, your friends, your beloved. You call us to be your servants as you take the basin and towel and serve us and others.
(The following paragraph may be used if a separate prayer of confession has not been used.)
We confess that when we hear the story of David laying aside his plans to build a temple and Mary willingly taking on the task of bearing the Savior, we are not so ready to give up our plans to take on the tasks you set before us, O God. We don't mind serving you when it fits into our plans and fits on our calendars. But when you ask us to give up our time and to serve you by serving the lowly, we find ourselves just a little too busy doing the things that we have decided are important. Help us with Mary and David to listen to your counsel and to be willing to become your faithful servants.
We give you thanks for all the blessings we have received from your bountiful hand. You have given us a creation to play in that is wondrous and beautiful. You have given us one another to love and be loved. You have given us yourself in your Son Jesus Christ.
(Other thanksgivings may be offered.)
The pains, cares, and worries of the world we offer to your great love and kindness. You have given us strength and blessing in the midst of our difficult times, and so we confidently offer those who are on our hearts to you. We know that your love and presence is being offered to them as well.
(Other intercessions may be offered.)
All these things we ask in the Name of our Savior Jesus Christ, who taught us to pray together, saying:
Our Father . . .
(Or if the Lord's Prayer is not used at this point in the service.)
All this we ask in the Name of the Blessed and Holy Trinity. Amen.
CHILDREN'S SERMON
Gabriel -- God's messenger
Luke 1:26-38
Object: A Christmas tree angel or nativity set angel
Good morning! I brought an angel with me today to tell a wonderful story about God. God doesn't work the way we work. We often see people based on their importance. We think some people are very important and we treat them special. Can you tell me about some people we consider very important? (give the children an opportunity to tell about important people) We treat kings and presidents in special ways that we don't treat others.
Sometimes when a person is very poor or doesn't have a really good job, people are tempted to treat them as if they are not as important as others. That's the way many people are. It was true a long time ago as well.
Many years ago in a little town -- which itself was not important -- there lived a young woman. Many would say she was not important at all. She was poor and she had no important job. She did not have a high position, such as being a princess or queen. Many people probably thought this poor woman was not at all important. Does anybody know this woman's name? (let them answer) Her name was Mary and she lived in Nazareth.
Others didn't think much of Mary from the unimportant town of Nazareth, but God thought she was very important. God sent a messenger to this woman. The messenger's name was Gabriel. Gabriel was one of these -- an angel. Does anyone know what God wanted Gabriel to say to Mary? (let them answer)
God told Mary she was to have the baby Jesus. That was important. That was the most important thing anyone could ever do.
One thing I think this story tells us is that every person is precious to God. God could have chosen anyone to have Jesus, but God chose a person everyone else thought not important. Now we consider Mary very important, but she was important to God long before anyone else thought she was important.
Do you know what? YOU also are important to God.
Prayer: Dearest God: Thank you for making us important people. Amen.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
The Immediate Word, December 21, 2008, issue.
Copyright 2008 by CSS Publishing Company, Inc., Lima, Ohio.
All rights reserved. Subscribers to The Immediate Word service may print and use this material as it was intended in sermons and in worship and classroom settings only. No additional permission is required from the publisher for such use by subscribers only. Inquiries should be addressed to permissions@csspub.com or to Permissions, CSS Publishing Company, Inc., 517 South Main Street, Lima, Ohio 45804.
