Don’t Miss The Message
Pastor Randy Corbin, Transitional Lead Pastor
On December 17, 1903, Orville and Wilbur Wright made their first flight of an airplane at Kitty Hawk, NC. On their fifth attempt, the plane, under the control of Orville, embarked on a twelve second flight. Wilbur rushed to the local telegraph office and sent the following message – WE HAVE FLOWN FOR 12 SECONDS – WE WILL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS!
Upon receiving the telegram their sister, Katherine, went to the newspaper office, told the editor of her brothers’ new flying machine, and informed him, they would be home for Christmas, if he would like to set up an interview.
He told her that was nice, and he would be sure to put something in the paper regarding the boys.
On December 19th, the local paper placed the following headline on the sixth page of the paper: “WRIGHT BROTHERS HOME FOR CHRISTMAS”.
The most important story of the year – man’s first flight – and the editor missed it! I wonder if the same could be said about us when it comes to Christmas.
We get so busy with our Christmas services, messages, and activities – not to mention our own personal and family activities – that the message of the incarnation slips past our hearts and souls. The carols are sung mechanically, the readings are given ritualistically, and the messages are prepared more for others than for our self. We just want to get it all done.
“Lord, block our way if we have not given notice of you. Slow us long enough to make us stare into your eyes and your heart. Cast some light on our hearts too. Whether it is when we rehearse the prophecies or re-view the manger scene or re-finger the Christmas hymns and carols – touch us with some compelling truth to transform us. We do not want to miss the message.”
