One of the fascinating aspects of our Advent Season is that we are introduced to so many intriguing and wonderful characters and personalities that, taken together, make for a remarkable preamble and preface for the Great Mystery of Christmas. At the very top of that list, we could easily find Mary and Joseph, the shepherds and Magi, and a slew of others. Among them, we would include Samson from the Old Testament and John from the New Testament as highlighted in our Readings today. Let’s start with what both Readings have in common: “You will be with child and will bear a son. So take neither wine nor strong drink, and eat nothing unclean.” (Samson) “He will drink neither wine nor strong drink.” (John) Both Samson and John were Nazirites from birth, which meant that they were permanently under this vow to keep them safe, sacred, and holy to accomplish something magnificent for God. And both certainly did!
But there is something else about these two men: Samson and John died in “seeming” defeat. When Samson died, he died a death that seemed to terminate an unsuccessful ministry, and he never lived to see the complete conquest of the Philistines. John was beheaded during imprisonment, struggling with doubts that Jesus was the Messiah. Although they were both men God used in great ways, their special roles to prepare for the Messiah were their absolute and true calling. Despite their differences, they were dramatic preludes to what would follow.
And what about us? How does this affect you and me as we near Christmas? Here are a few thoughts: 1) Everyone has a special calling. Happiness will depend on its discovery. 2) The greatest moments of our lives need both preparation and the element of surprise-filled joy. 3) Disappointments will certainly be present, but they never define the meaning of one’s life.
“And when we give each other Christmas gifts in His name, let us remember that He has given us the sun and the moon and the stars, and the earth with its forests and mountains and oceans–and all that lives and moves upon them. He has given us all green things and everything that blossoms and bears fruit and all that we quarrel about and all that we have misused–and to save us from our foolishness, from all our sins, He came down to earth and gave us Himself.” Sigrid Undset
Board Member
Everyone needs to have a Ray “Redfish” for a friend or at least to meet one like him before you leave the planet. He has never been known to interrupt a single person, say an unkind thing, although he did come close during the last Dallas Cowboy game, or leave any food on his plate. Ray wants to live in a world where Jesus is Lord, life is sacred, and blessings never end.
Board Member
Grateful for an amazing group of friends and a life that has been blessed and enriched by so many, Andrea brings a deep joy and dedication to the mission of CityOfAgape. She is detail-oriented and uses her experience and foresight to proactively address the needs of those around her. When you speak with Andrea, you feel like you’re the only one in the room.
Board Member
Father David comes from the land of Iowa where you can get sunburn and frostbite all in the same week. He has the mind of an architect and the soul of a musician. Father David has given his heart to Jesus and truly lives in the Kingdom. An accomplished guitarist, drummer, phenomenal preacher, he has the voice of a baritone angel. His prayers are powerful and his humor, well… it’s Iowan.
Secretary/Treasurer
Every day, for nine months, an intermittent light rain falls in Seattle, Washington. Those days are brightened by the warm smile and hopeful outlook on life that Angelyn brings to every encounter. Her financial expertise and engaging conversation has ensured great things ahead for CityOfAgape. Her life is filled with a constant welcome that is focused and friendly.
President
Jacqueline’s life epitomizes hard work, creative service and complete dedication, not only to CityOfAgape, but also to her husband, Joshua, and her beautiful children. Her smile, even when things are difficult, is refreshing and comforting. In most currently used English dictionaries, under the word “energy,” you will find Jacqueline’s picture.
Secretary/Treasurer
Janice is not only meticulous in reviewing records and requests for Scriptures, but her eyes well-up with joyful tears when you ask her about all the letters she has received from the thousands of Bible recipients over the years. She loves gardening and listening to the earth; her life is like a long stroll through an intriguing and engaging nature center.
Board Member
Father James’ priestly service has taken him to four different countries, many parish settings, and in contact with more friends that rivals most politicians. One of his favorite quotes is by G.K. Chesterton, “Let your religion be less of a theory and more of a love affair.” If there are sounds of a lively discussion, mixed with hearty laughter and the aroma of a good cigar, Father James can’t be too far way.
Founder and President Emeritus
The minute John walks through the door, your IQ goes up. He embodies the remarkable talent of grasping the bigger picture while juggling multiple points of view, in a world where many are very one-sided. Always happy, even when he is sad, John is ready to challenge and comfort all in the same breath. Where some only see problems, John sees the bright promise of tomorrow. His inspiration and memory will outlast his years on earth. John always says, “there are always miracles where there is great love.”