When I go to Rome, I fast on Saturday, but in Milan I do not. Do you also follow the custom of whatever church you attend, if you do not want to give or receive scandal.
- Saint Ambrose
We did not talk about the Advent of God so much as how to cope with Advent life in a congregation. We were asked what we would like to give up, realistic or not, during the season. And from there we got into deep waters. We talked about gifts...learning to empty ourselves to receive gifts from God, from the communities we minister to...It's a constant struggle for all people. We carry so much with us (emotionally, physically) that there's no room for receiving. Our cups runeth over, and there is no room for grace. We have to let some things go in order to receive God's good gifts. Yeah...it was a nice day to dig around in this dirt.
Today is the Annual Meeting for the American Baptist Churches, Metro Chicago. I'm supposed to be there most of the day. Now, I am not so sure that I can be. There's a lot to be done for tomorrow. The sermon is coming along. And that's good, but it ain't done yet. I want to be done before I go to bed tonight. I still have to prepare for the adult Sunday school...Abraham.
Well, you all enjoy your day. I'll be back online again on Sunday morning.
Posted by tripp at November 10, 2007 07:22 AM