MAKING A CLEAR PATH FOR JESUS. The Advent season is upon us.  As we prepare for the coming of the Christchild this Advent season, we hear the words of John the Baptist crying out in the wilderness, "Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.  Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth; and all flesh shall see the salvation of God."
Studies show that many people in our society believe in Jesus but they don't like the church because church folk to them seem judgmental.
The core foundation of the Lutheran church has always been built upon grace.  The undeserved love of God in Christ Jesus is what transformed Martin Luther and it is what transforms us today. It is the polar opposite of a judgmental attitude.  So how do we make a clear path to Jesus for our neighbors outside the church this Advent season?
The second part of our mission statement gives some good path clearing suggestions.  Milwaukie Lutheran Church welcomes all, reaches out in witness to God's love, provides a sanctuary of care, service and learning for all ages.
Remember the 3 "W's"?
Welcome - As many of our neighbors come to church around the Christmas season, I would encourage you to warmly welcome them, invite them to coffee hour, introduce yourself.  A simple act of hospitality will go a long way.
Witness - Inviting a neighbor to the Wednesday night Advent Taize services or to one of the Christmas Eve services may be just the nudge someone needs to take the step along the path to Jesus.
Wellness - that is, care, service and learning.  My hope is that as a community of faith, we may be a model for a "circle of trust" where people might find a safe place to share the turmoil of their heart.  Be willing to stop and listen.  So many people simply need someone to listen to them into wholeness.  Listening is one of the best path clearers God has given us.
May we be a community of faith known for our great love for one another so that paths may be made clear to Jesus.
Blessings to you.  ~Pastor Charles