Cradle, Candles, Cross, and Communion

Often times, the grace of God catches me so totally off guard that I am speechless. Yesterday was one of those times.

The grace of the cradle (ok, ok manger really but it didn't work with my alliteration) alone is stunning. That Jesus would leave his rightful place at the hand of God the Father Almighty and come as a helpless baby.

The candles lit on the altar represent the Holy Spirit being present with us in worship. The candles near the back of the platform are the Advent candle. Yesterday we lit the second candle; the candle of peace. In God's unending grace he offers us peace for daily life and peace in an unpeaceful world.

The cross always is a representation of the grace of God. That Jesus was willing to die for our sins even though he was sinless, is the the greatest representation of God's grace towards humanity that can be found. When it was lit up by the flame of the Advent candles I saw more of God's plan than I had yet been aware of. I cannot put it into words adequately. Not to point out the obvious but had there been no Advent there would be no cross... It just hit me hard yesterday.

Communion. Oh, the grace found in communion. As a United Methodist, this is the only sacrament that we take part in repeatedly. (The only other sacrament that UMC affirms is baptism and it is a one and done situation.) To see the representation of the last supper next to the manger and know that this helpless baby, born to unwed teenage parents said these words, "This is my blood. The blood of the new covenant poured out for you and for all, for the forgiveness of sin. Do this as often as you drink it in remembrance of me" was breath-taking.

Maybe it is just me and this picture doesn't mean much to anyone else. But this picture to me represents the fullness of Christ's birth, baptism, life, ministry, death and resurrection. This picture sums up what I believe and why I believe it. This picture speaks volumes to my heart.