Postscript

Our pastor told the congregation about a picture of the nativity he saw, with captions...the shepherds were labeled "unclean;"  the wisemen "foreigners;" Mary and Joseph "unimportant."  He asked the question, "What would we be called, if we were present?"

My mind immediately went back to my blog about "Prominent."  It, in a strange kind of way, made my point.  We THINK we know about the thoughts of God, as well as the labels we put on people.  We think of anyone different as "foreign."  We consider certain occupations as "unclean."  We rank people according to our own standards.

I imagine the nativity is just about the perfect example of our misunderstanding of folks.  Because the people of Bible times were expecting a savior who would rule in a militaristic and kingly way, they didn't recognize the infant Jesus...because shepherds were second-class citizens, they were unlikely as the heralds of the coming of the Messiah...because the entire story, beginning with the immaculate conception, was not what they were expecting...nor understandable in any way...the nativity was full of new concepts and unbelievable players.

Perhaps it's good that we look back at these labels and misconceptions and learn from them.  For we, in 2011, tend to be doubters and labelers and rankers.  Perhaps in 2012, we can loosen our chains and look at others in a more welcoming way.  Wouldn't it be wonderful if everyone could just love first and forego ranking of others?  If we root for the underdog and put away our pharisee-like ways, what a loving place we could create...a place where those from all walks and all social strata could feel at home.

So...as we finish up this year and move toward the next, let's join together to be a loving, welcoming community where noone is more important than the other.  It's a freeing attitude and certain to honor the Christ whom we love and serve.  Let's make 2012 the best year EVER!