Dear Members and Friends of our ELS:

December already? The month may remind us of a number of things, some possibly not so pleasant. If you are in business, you are interested in a profitable shopping season but you also need to prepare for inventory time. If you are in college, semester exams are on your mind. If you are a Minnesota meteorologist, December gives you the privilege of reporting to your listeners just how far the mercury level is beginning to drop.

But December also brings true pleasures. This month of the year presents valuable worship opportunities for us Christians. It is the time of Advent and the time to reflect on the most glorious miracle in the history of the world-the Son of god becoming human flesh! Describing this miracle, one Lutheran theologian remarked: "The incarnation is that miracle with which all of Scripture is concerned and through which all the threads run from Genesis to Revelation. This wonder of wonders, this God-Man Christ, is confessed by those who believe in Him as their God and Lord."

What is your frame of mind this December? Has 2004 been a difficult year? Has your optimism faded for some reason? Do you feel lonely? On the other hand, might you have such a busy schedule of activities that you find yourself crowding out the spiritual preparations Advent and Christmas intend to bring?

Use this month of December to contemplate these important spiritual truths:

* Our hearts, first of all, need to be convicted of our sin as we examine the law of God and its application to our lives.

* Our hearts are lifted up and given new life through the good news that God sent His Son to be our Redeemer and that He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins!

* Our hearts are made ready for Christ's return in glory through constant use of the means of grace-God's Word and Sacraments.

* Our hearts ponder the great love of God in having His Son be born as a child at Bethlehem; this joy sustains us for all that lies ahead.

Now let us all with gladsome cheer
Follow the shepherds and draw near
To see this wondrous gift of God,
Who hath his only Son bestowed.
Ah, dearest Jesus, holy Child,
Make thee a bed, soft, undefiled,
Within my heart, that it may be
A quiet chamber kept for Thee.

(ELH 123:6, 13)

John A Moldstad
President of the ELS