When I was a kid, my church’s focused time for children on Christmas Eve was always framed as “Baby Jesus’ Birthday Party.” It was always a lot of fun, and probably a good way to wrangle a bunch of excited kids with visions of sugarplums dancing in their heads. But, as I grew older, I … Continue reading Unto Us A Child is Born: A Reflection for Christmas 2024
It is one of the sad realities of Christian history that the Roman Empire conquered Christianity — not by persecuting it, but by adopting it. Despite the valiant efforts of monastics, mystics, and reformers, who have offered up a 'minority report' in every generation, for the most part, Christianity has been enmeshed with ideas of … Continue reading The Song of the Lowly: A Reflection on Luke 1.39-55
All too often, it seems to me, as people of faith, we want the big, bold solution to the problems of the world, instead of the simple things right before us. And perhaps that’s why the teaching of John the Baptist, which was later echoed and expanded upon by Jesus, resonates so strongly with me. … Continue reading Sons of Abraham: An Advent Reflection on Luke 3.7-18
[As I was preparing for my vacation, I wanted to write something today about John the Baptist, who takes centre stage in today's Gospel reading. As I read the passage, however, I was struck by its reference to Isaiah 40 and its complex message of both challenge and hope. And so, I thought I'd share … Continue reading A Voice in the Wilderness: An Advent Reflection on Isaiah 40 (Repost)
Advent is upon us once again. But, due to a somewhat spontaneous vacation and upcoming houseguests, this won't be a good season for me for writing. And so, I thought I'd share with you my collection of Advent series from previous years, in case any of them pique your interest to follow along with this … Continue reading Resources for Advent
Matthew Root 