The contemplation of the stars was the noblest of all sciences for the ancients. The result of their study of the night sky was to see clusters of stars as images, and then tell a story about that animal or person as the constellation moved across the night sky. For us, the contemplation of the Bible is a noble task. Contemplating the people and stories that have come down to us from our spiritual ancestors is gratifying as they chart the work of God across the ages.
This Advent at Saint Luke, we the gazers of 2022, contemplate the names used in the Bible for Jesus. We will gaze upon the texts and share our insights about what we see. Just as with constellations, as we share our reflections, questions, and thoughts with one another, our light shines brighter and we see things that we never would have discovered on our own. Join us as we cast our Advent journey to Christmas in a new and rewarding light.
Today’s reflection is from Monica Staniz. She came to Saint Luke Lutheran Church eleven years ago when my husband, Matthew, began as the Youth and Family Pastor. Every Sunday the congregation states, “All are welcome, no exceptions” and she shared that they are true examples of this love. She is included in the Christmas Pageants, Mission Trip to Tanzania, Egg Hunt, Kidtober Fest, Empty Nesters Group, Bingo Nights, raffle gift bags, LGBTQIA+ forum, and she teaches Confirmation. Monica shared, “Saint Luke has given my family many ways to give back for all the blessings we have been given. “
SON OF MAN
““For the Son of Man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.”- Luke 19:10
There are many names we can call Jesus- King of Kings, Savior, and Son of God are just a few. But the name “Son of God” resonates the most to me. Jesus was born, so he knows how humans live, breathe, and die. He was able to see, smell, touch, taste and hear- just like us. He worked hard to bring people to God’s unfailing love. We need to do the same.
Holidays are a hard time. Remember that when you are struggling, lost, confused, or even when your life is joyful, Jesus is always by your side. He lived so that we can live and be saved. He was human, as are we. He has shown us how we ought to treat others so we all can enjoy the unconditional love of God.
You are the Son of Man and you know how I feel.
When I sing to you, I sing loud.
When I speak of you, I speak proud.
Because you are the Son of Man, and you know how I feel.
When the cold settles into my bones,
When the warm sun begs for ice cream cones,
You are the Son of Man, and you know how I feel.
When I hear a newborn baby cry,
When a loved one has to say goodbye,
You are the Son of Man, and you know how I feel.
When I see the compassion of my friends,
When the love of family never ends,
You are the Son of Man, and you know how I feel.
When I pray and bow my head,
When I think of the blood you shed,
You are the Son of Man, and You know how I feel.
When I receive your body and your blood,
I know that I am truly loved.
You are the Son of Man, and you know how I feel.
Dear Jesus, thank you for living as a human and understanding the struggles, joys, and feelings I experience. This is a hard time of year, and I miss those that have passed and are with you in Heaven. Help me to always be thankful for what I have because of what you have done for me. Please help me to stay strong. Be with me as I help those that are lost and show them your unfailing love. May this next year be filled with the love of family and friends. Help me to remember that you are always with me.