Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Peace and Justice Christmas

We've been exposed this year to some creative ways to continue to follow Jesus (instead of the consumerism of our culture) as we celebrate His birth. This one has been especially exciting--Advent Conspiracy--"substituting compassion for consumption."

In our apartment, we're pretty excited about the "relational gift giving" where the focus is giving the gift of presence as opposed to just the purchase of an item to own. I'm kind of sensing that we're going to be trying it out on each other this year, but I'm still not sure what it looks like...seeing as it's still a surprise!!! ;)

Thought this "song" was interesting. It's what got me rambling about this today. It was in the weekly email from www.sojo.net. Sojourners is a faith-based organization whose mission "is to articulate the biblical call to social justice, inspiring hope and building a movement to transform individuals, communities, the church, and the world." I love this time of year with the traditions, Chrstmas lights, movies and songs and the amazing time to spend with family. Hopefully, like this song says, Jesus' call to love others doesn't get lost in the mix by those of us who are His followers.

Have Yourself a Peace and Justice Christmas
Have yourself a peace and justice Christmas,
Set your heart a-right.
Flee the malls and focus on Christ’s guiding light.
Have yourself a peace and justice Christmas,

Give your time a way.
Share God’s love,
And serve “the least of these” today.
Here we are, as we pray for peace,

We’ll live simply and give more.
We care for those far and near to us,
Which brings cheer to us, once more.
God brings down

The haughty from high places,
And lifts up the low.
God cares for the hungry and the humble,
so –Forget the stress and let the peace and justice flow!

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