'In America we have always been uneasy about the mixing of religion and politics'
JOE MILLER JR.

Isaiah 7:10-16

The stage for the birth of Jesus was being set many years before he was born. This confrontational conversation between Isaiah and King Ahaz occurred some 700 years before the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem.

The oracle regarding a young woman giving birth to a child to be named Emmanuel is quoted in Matthew 1:23 as part of the birth narrative of Jesus. However, more is being set in motion than the birth itself.

Reflect on what the prophet is doing in this Old Testament scripture. We take it for granted because his action is not unique among prophets. Imagine what could happen to a prophet who confronts a king in such an aggressive fashion. Isaiah could have been killed on the spot.

Some of the prophets were killed for speaking out against the evils of the day, including the evils being perpetrated by the king. Prophets were not reluctant to apply the word of the Lord to political situations.

In America we have always been uneasy about the mixing of religion and politics. Remember our first Roman Catholic president and the controversy? We currently have a Southern Baptist preacher and a Mormon running for nomination, and there have been many arguments surrounding their candidacies.

Like the prophets of old, Jesus had no qualms about confronting the religio-political leaders of his day. He weighed in on the injustices of his day in a variety of ways. He personally fed and healed the marginalized of his day while preaching and teaching about the Kingdom of God.

The Kingdom of God was not pie in the sky to Jesus but something real, tangible, and physical. When 5000 people were hungry, he did not tell them that all would be well when they got to heaven. No! He fed them!

He did not shy away from confronting Pharisees, Sadducees, scribes, or even the powerful and political priests. He told it like it was. Why do you think he was crucified?

What does this have to do with Christmas? The imagery of the shepherds, angels, star, Magi, manger, and so forth is a great beginning of the Christian Year.

However, we need to move beyond the imagery of the baby and see the cross in the background. As Christians we are called to do much more than have nostalgic thoughts about the baby.

We must follow in the footsteps of the Savior as he went about his ministry 2000 years ago. Feed the hungry, heal the hurt, study scripture, go to church, clothe the naked, spread the word, pray for your enemies, and fight for justice for the marginalized! Not just at Christmas but all year long!

Joe Miller Jr., Pastor of First United Methodist Church. www.NewtonMethodist.com