50, [59, 60], or 33
Isaiah 9:18-10:4 2 Peter 2:10b-16 Matthew 3:1-12
Anyone who has worshipped in Christ Chapel at Seminary of the Southwest recalls the cross standing outside the eastern wall. It reminds those gathered that while we come to the altar of God to be transformed through an encounter with the risen Christ in the breaking of the bread, the mission of the church is outside the chapel. It has been years since I have worshiped in Christ Chapel, and while I miss that gathered Body of Christ, it is meet and right that I serve Christ beyond the walls of the seminary. Perhaps this seems like an obvious statement, but how many times have I preferred “coming to this Table for solace only, and not for strength; for pardon only, and not for renewal.”
Psalm 50 requires us to cast our gaze beyond the altar and out into the creation. Recalling the pillar of fire that led the people out of Egypt, God reminds the people not to become too comfortable in the beauty of Zion. Its beauty is not theirs to covet but theirs to cultivate and share. The thanksgiving sacrifice, taken from God’s own creation, serves as a means of sharing that love. It prepares us to receive the light of Christ at his nativity, even amidst the dark days of winter, and to spread that light in the world.
Accept our sacrifice of Thanksgiving, O God, and continually help us to love and serve you through sacrament and service.
Listen to Charles read his Advent meditation and prayer:
