Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. (Luke 2:14 KJV)
I just saw the Christmas service from Kensington Church tonight. A few thoughts. The 12 Days of Christmas will never be the same again for me. I never thought Eminem would make his way into a church service. I had 80′s flashbacks with Devo. The arts team at KC is simply amazing.
More than anything, the message was one of significance for me particularly as I continue to reflect on Christmas and what it means to me. This year, the Kensington team went to Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ and brought back a story of hope. A story of people divided politically and literally by a wall separating Palestine and Israel. We learned about peace on earth. We learned about people putting aside their labels and bringing forward their humanity. A humanity that thinks more about the person rather than trying to change a mind or opinion.
It was a great reminder to me to really focus on the people that I come into contact with on a daily basis and honor them. Respect them. Love them. These are the things that come to mind especially when I hear the words “Peace be with you.” Jesus Christ was and is the Prince of Peace. When that offering of peace is made, I feel relief, love, hope, and joy.
Peace is often the forgotten message but it can be the unifying message in any discussion or debate.
This week, I invite you to join my Kensington family and experience the hope and peace that was talked about today. There are a few of you I’m already thinking about that I believe would really get something out of the message and I’m praying for the right opportunity to invite you. There is also the opportunity to watch from the comfort of your own home as Kensington will be streaming LIVE all 15 Christmas services from its Troy campus at kensingtonchurch.tv. Whatever you decide, I invite you to join me and renew your sense of peace with a faith and hope that has given me strength over the last few years.
Merry Christmas. Peace be with you.
If you’re on Twitter, follow #kensingtonchristmas to see what people are saying!
