OSL  

 CANADA   

OSL Canada

The International Order of St Luke the Physician

Articles

Christmas Greetings 2012

The Rev. Ron Vanauken

President, OSL Canada

A Child is born to us! A son is given to us! And he will be our ruler. He will be called, “Wonderful Counselor,” “Mighty God,” “Eternal Father,” Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 (TEV)

That oft quoted verse is a poignant reminder that whether we speak of individuals or nations, healing is ultimately not found in seminars, or courses, or liturgies, or prayers, but in a turning to God. How often were those who came to our Lord looking for a quick fix to an immediate need, whether it be hunger or healing, and then, having received what they wanted, they disappeared back into the crowds with not even a “Thank you” let alone a changed life. They received the might of God for the moment, but did not receive wonderful counsel, did not receive eternal fatherly care, did not receive the peace of mind and spirit that only Jesus could bring. He offers so much, yet we frequently settle for so little.

My personal concern is always that we strive to keep the focus on Jesus, not on ourselves; that we strive to communicate the word and wisdom of the Lord, and not our own foolishness; that we strive to bring individuals into a personal relationship with our Lord and Saviour that more and more they might experience the Holy Spirit’s healing, redeeming, and renewing power in their lives; that we strive to bring them into the family that is the church where they might come to know God’s fatherly love and care; that we strive to mature and help others to mature to the point where the peace of Christ, with which we bless one another, might reign in our hearts and our lives even in the midst of sorrow, tragedy, and loss.

May this Christmas be the opportunity to receive Jesus in his fullness.

Grace and peace.

Ron Vanauken