Neill Minish

Dear Friends,

In today’s lectionary reading (Matthew 23 13-26), Jesus reprimands the Pharisees seven times for hindering others from salvation. In these woe-full verses, Jesus shares seven points of condemnation for false teachers. In the passage, Jesus says “(…) you clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence.” This passage makes me think about the current day application. Are there false teachers today? How does Jesus want us to learn from this exchange? 

As I ponder these questions during the Advent season, I also think about my faith and our family holiday traditions.

Advent is a special season for awaiting the arrival of Christ. During this time of year, we dust off seasonal décor, string up lights, bake gingerbread, and share annual traditions. Christmas has always been my favorite holiday. The smell of fresh cut fir trees combined with the sound of Vince Guaraldi’s Linus and Lucy left an indelible mark on my younger years. While I didn’t grow up in a particularly religious home, we usually made it to church around Christmas and Easter.

Now that I’m a father, Amy and I frequently discuss the childhood we hope to provide for our children and how we will share our faith in Jesus with them. Our kids often seem to learn from observing others more than oral direction alone. This week I have been thinking about my role as a dad and how I can model not only good citizenship on the outside, but also my faith in Christ. During this advent season, I hope to spend intentional time with our kids and in quiet reflection as we anticipate Christmas morning.

Peace,

—Neill