Pastor's Devotions by Tim Harris

Did you know that this week and next, Jupiter and Saturn are going to be closer together than they have been in 800 years? The climax of what is called a “great conjunction” will take place on December 21 when the two planets “…will appear separated by just 6.1 arc minutes. That is roughly the thickness of a dime held at arm’s length.” (Scientific American, December 17, 2020) Thus, the light from these two planets will combine to shine in the night sky as if they are one, making them one of brightest points to behold in the sky. Some are likening this phenomenon to the star that led the magi to the baby Jesus. I’ve read numerous times how this year we are getting a real Christmas star!  Whether or not there is any connection to the star of Bethlehem, it seems fitting to me that we would be receiving such an incredible astronomical gift towards the end of a year such as the one we’ve been through. I’m not sure that it’s exactly a Christmas star such as the one that led the magi to Bethl

Last night Kim and I lighted the first candle for Chanukah. As many of you know, I’m Jewish on my mother’s side so for me it is quite significant to light the Chanukah candles. In doing so, I am continuing a heritage and tradition that has been practiced in my family for centuries. And it is another opportunity to recall God’s miraculous work on behalf of his people.  As my children were growing up, after I would light the candles and pray a simple prayer, they would burst into the traditional Chanukah song, “O Chanukah! O Chanukah!” that speaks of spinning the dreidel, eating latkas, and the candles brightly burning. Then, we would all begin to sing the old Sunday School song, “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine!” Finally, they would each get some chocolate gelt (money) or a dollar or a new Christmas ornament! Yes, we kind of blend everything together!  Last year's fully lit menorah Each year, as I pray over the candles, rather than praying the traditional Hebrew pr

As most of you know, Kim and I became grandparents for the first time this past August. Our grandson’s name is Jesse, and this will be his first Christmas. Of course, his parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles are all so excited to celebrate Christmas with him. Kim and I are especially looking forward to having Jesse (as well as his parents!) with us on Christmas morning.  The only problem is, Jesse’s not excited at all about Christmas—after all, he doesn’t yet understand one day from the next, no less what a special day like Christmas is all about.   Jesse in front of our Christmas Tree! It makes me think about that very first Christmas—i.e., the day Jesus was born. There was so much hubbub surrounding Jesus’ birth: the stable and manger, angels and shepherds, magi and a star, etc.  But the newborn child knew nothing of what was happening around him. He was just a little baby, like any other baby, that simply needed to eat, sleep, and be held and comforted. Yes, that’s right!  Jesus