Contents

In the Flesh
At this time of year we celebrate that the "Word was made flesh" in Jesus Christ. What does it mean to be made flesh? What does it mean to be human, both for Jesus and for us?

Blessed in Believing
Anne Andert
Mary, mother of Jesus, trusted and believed and so was blessed. Blessing always comes from trusting that God's word will be fulfilled.

God Meets Us: Messiah
Emily Williams
The music of Handel's Messiah opens our hearts to God in ways that the words of Scripture alone might not. It reminds us that God is with us and always will be.

Jesus was a Refugee
Cassandra Champion
We are called by Jesus to welcome the stranger, to care for the vulnerable, and to stand with the unjustly accused.

The Coming of Christ
Julie K. Aageson
This is the time of year we look for and long for the promised Christ, the God who comes to us offering wholeness and new life.

ELCA World Hunger
In this season of giving we remember those in need.
Jesus with Us
Kathyrn Sime
As we walk with those who live with poverty, hunger, and disease, we are blessed by their courage and knowing that Jesus is with them.
All We Want for Christmas Are Good Gifts
Sue Edison-Swift
We can respond to the incredible gift of God made flesh by ensuring that the presents we give and receive are good gifts.

A Matter of Life & Death
Mary Mortimore Dossin
The joy we share at the Christmas table is a foretaste of the Feast to come.

Departments
Voices
In the Flesh
Kate Sprutta Elliott

Give Us This Day
Becoming One With
Marj Leegard

Calendar Notes
December
Audrey Novak Riley

Let Us Pray
Walking with God
Debra K. Farrington

Health Wise
Affordable Health Care: A Christmas Wish
Molly M. Ginty

Bible Study
Hope in God in Times of Suffering
Terry and Faith Fretheim
Session 4: Suffering as the Consequence of Sin
Suffering is often associated with sin. Suffering can be the consequence of our own sin, the sin of others, or the tragic effects of community sin over time.

We Recommend
Resources for action, advocacy, programs, or further study.

Grace Notes
Bold Over
Linda Post Bushkofsky

Amen!
God with Us
Catherine Malotky

Plus...
Directory of Reader Services
Subscription, editorial, and ordering information.