Title: Christmas Message from ELCA Presiding Bishop
ELCA NEWS SERVICE

December 16, 1999

"Helping the Herald Angels"

When the Christmas angels sing "Glory to God in the highest," they're
announcing that the birth of Jesus has cosmic significance. God's
gracious entrance into human life not only means hope for us; it also
demonstrates God's power -- a miracle no less glorious than the creation
itself. To create something out of nothing in the beginning was
certainly awesome, but to create holiness out of sinful human flesh is
like starting from less than zero. No wonder the heavens ring with
cheers at this remarkable feat!

But there is more. The miraculous birth of Jesus could have been wonder
enough, but the reason for that birth surpasses imagination. In fact,
people still ask why it was necessary for God to take such a dramatic
step; surely there was an easier way to restore the love that had been
lost between God and God's children.

But is restoring peace so simple? Many parents have discovered that the
way to reconciliation with their children is not easy at all, and the
textbook remedies offered by advice columns and well-meaning friends
just can't bridge the gap.

So God did what no human parent can do. God crossed the gap and joined
us really, fully, right down to the skin and bones. How contrary to
what we would expect. Parents tell their estranged children to "grow
up" -- that is, to become more like the parents. Enemies are offered
forgiveness if they'll just come to their senses. Warring parties
demand that the other side lay down their arms first.

Peace is hard to achieve because each side has preconditions and no one
will risk the first move. Of course, there are good reasons for such
caution: nobody wants to risk defeat. But there comes a point when risk
is preferable to a hopeless standoff. God took that risk by entering
human life, and we celebrate God's daring each Christmas. Can we also
give glory to that daring by becoming peacemakers ourselves?

May Jesus Christ show you the way!

A blessed Christmas.

The Rev. H. George Anderson
Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

[Note: This is also the bishop's current "Dial Bishop Anderson" recorded
telephone message which can be heard by dialing 773-380-2930.]

For information contact:
John Brooks, Director (773) 380-2958 or [log in to unmask]
http://listserv.elca.org/archives/elcanews.html