December 8

On Sunday I was invited to sing in a "Sing a long Messiah." Held at a grand Catholic Cathedral, we sat by vocal section in the pews, facing a large community orchestra, the director and four sublime soloists. We stood to sing the choral parts as the director turned to direct us. It was awesome. It was also humbling as I sight read most of the scores. Although I listen to it daily in December, I've now realized that I sing along to ALL the parts, and mix them all together. Following the score was a whole different experience.

The first solo is a tenor singing "Comfort Ye." Sigh. It is simply lovely, in music and lyrics, and today's soloist did it justice. It's still one of my favorite pieces.

Isaiah 40:1-3 "Comfort, O comfort My people," says your God. "Speak kindly to Jerusalem; And call out to her, that her warfare has ended, That her iniquity has been removed, That she has received of the Lord’s hand Double for all her sins." A voice is calling, "Clear the way for the Lord in the wilderness; Make smooth in the desert a highway for our God.

Isaiah was told by God to comfort the exiled Israelites. The 70 year captivity, a punishment for Israel's rebellion against God, was almost over. Her punishment behind her, she could have a clean slate. Comfort.

How kind of God to give them hope and comfort in the midst of punishment. God does promise consequence to our actions, but there is never a lack of hope. No matter the sin, God is waiting to take us back and to comfort us even through the consequences.

Be comforted. Your Savior is born, and He is Christ the Lord. Emmanuel. God with us. Take comfort. He is LORD. And you can be reconciled to Him.

Organizational Tip of the Day:

Pick out the cookie recipes that you make and inventory your supplies. Make a list of ingredients needed, and put it in your wallet. Next time you dash to the store for something, you can pick up the cookie ingredients too. Schedule an evening to make the first batch of dough. Refrigerate until you have time to bake.

Easiest Christmas treat: Turkey Eggs. Place pretzel rings (circles) onto waxed paper on a cookie sheet. Melt white chocolate. Spoon chocolate into the center of each pretzel ring. Put a red or green m&m in the center of each one and allow to harden. A quick, easy, tasty and pretty confection. The sweet and salty combination is a winner.