Denver Seminary

Advent Devotional

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20 When I was doing campus ministry in Singapore, I met a young Japanese MBA student who had never heard about Jesus. We were having a great spiritual conversation and I tried to find an opportunity to share the gospel. I decided to start with the sto- ry of Christmas, so I asked him, "There are many countries, including Japan, that cele- brate Christmas. Do you know the story behind it?" He replied with a questioning look, "Christmas? What's that?" His answer intrigued me, so I rephrased. "If I'm not wrong, Ja- pan also celebrates Christmas on December 24th and 25th, correct?" He was surprised and said, "Oh, you mean X-mas? Yes, we do; isn't it "lovers' day" like Valentine's Day?" So, I happily explained to him the secret of the story of X-mas. What comes to mind when you hear the word, Christmas? Is it the image of a family dinner next to a colorful tree, the sound of carols, finding the perfect gift for a loved one? Is it almost another version of Thanksgiving Day or birthday celebration? I believe these are wonderful ways of celebrating God's love with family and friends. However, it seems we often forget why we're celebrating this season, even when we are celebrating Christ's birth at our churches and in our Christian homes. The Pharisees liked telling people to go and learn, but they, themselves, did not. Jesus quotes the words they commonly used and said, "But go and learn what this means: 'I de- sire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners" (Matthew 9:13). This he said while eating with sinners (v. 10-11). The Pharisees were proficient in the Scripture, but not in their love for God and others. Their ceremonies and traditions were a hollow shadow. We know the good news of Christmas, but are we proficient in more than knowledge? Do we cling to our ceremonies and neglect the reason for them? Jesus came for sinners. He did not live the brilliant life of a savior, but the life of a humble, lowly servant to show His love for those alienated from the gospel through inviting them to the feast. We greet people saying, "Merry Christmas" every year, but what does this really mean to you? Are there people alienated from the gospel around you? How about sharing the love of Christ and the gospel to those who are marginalized today. Jihoon Park Current student, mdiv (ChAplAinCy) "But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." – Matthew 9:13 the secret oF X-MAs December 15

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