Rev. Chism's Weekly Message

We have a whole bunch of turkeys in Tewksbury. They stop traffic and go to and from for a bite to eat in our yards. One day I saw one hanging out on the top of my fence. Every once in a while a flock, also called a rafter, hangs out at the church. We should try to start a turkey ministry. It can be funded with turkey food.

Every time I see those butterballs raftering through the yard I think of Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is an important day in our country because we take a break and celebrate gratefulness. This year is going to be different because of the pandemic. But hey, we will get through this and better days are on the way. Blessings are still happening all around us.

I read yesterday that the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade is still going to happen. They are taking so many precautions for the tradition to be a part of our celebration this year. My favorite part of the parade is at the end when Santa shows up. As a child it always officially marked the beginning of the holiday season.

We start the beginning of a new Christian Year this Sunday. The Season of Advent is here and we will light candles on the Advent Wreath as we prepare for the gift of the Christ Child. Traditional bible passages will be shared once more to build toward the Christmas Season. Our traditions will continue. Members of our church will come this Sunday and light the first candle. This tradition has replaced Santa at the end of the parade as the official beginning of the holiday season for me.

The people Israel had waited many years for the Messiah. Years and years had passed and they hoped and prayed this person would give them a new beginning. Patiently they waited for that day. Prophets of the Old Testament penned words about this person. People heard their message and waited patiently.

There are many debates about the prophecies of the Old Testament in relation to Jesus. Regardless of how a person interprets these passages, together they paint a description of the Lord. Isaiah 11:1-10 mentions things like wisdom, counsel, helping those looked down upon, and other descriptions. I also think of Isaiah 52:7-9 which talks about good news from the mountain tops proclaiming salvation. People, referred to as "watchmen," shout for joy. There are so many passages I could quote.

Beginnings are special. Hope is often attached to them. Every once in a while we need the reset button to be pushed and try something new. Have you been praying for a new beginning of some type? Renewing a relationship? Forgiving someone? Asking for forgiveness? Trying to live out the good news of Christ? Overcoming disappointments?

Maybe this Advent you can pray and look for new beginnings. The Christmas Season always brings about the joy of giving gifts to others. Advent prepares us to give. Christmas is the time we give. A new year is a chance of new beginnings.

Are you prepared? Are you ready?

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you once more. I pray we all make the best of it during these days of challenges. New beginnings are always around the corner. Let us thank God for them.

Stay Safe,

Rev. Baxter