Advent Table Devotions 3

There have been many versions of the story of Scrooge over the years. I think my favorite is The Muppet Christmas Carol. Michael Caine plays Ebenezer Scrooge. Kermit the Frog plays Bob Cratchit. And how can you not love Gonzo narrating the story as Charles Dickens! Like all other Scrooge movies, Ebenezer is still visited by three ghosts (past, present, and future).

You still have the sad story of Bob’s ill son, Tiny Tim. And of course the story must end with Scrooge changing his ways and providing a feast and gifts around London. Gonzo ﬁnishes by telling the viewer that Scrooge became like a second father to Tiny Tim, who beat his illness. Don’t you wish all Christmases could be like that one? A dedicated father is given a promotion so he can provide for his family. An innocent boy is given the medical attention that saves his life. A rich miser changes his ways and becomes a hero to his neighbors. The story is not focused on God but it sure smells of Divine intervention.

When Jesus was born in Bethlehem, he was called Immanuel or “God with us.” What would a “God with us” do in his earthly ministry? He certainly fed the hungry and healed the sick. He had a special love for children, like Tiny Tim, and saved his best miracles for families that thought their children were gone. And of course, Jesus ultimately came into this world to destroy death once and for all (cross, tomb, heaven). For that gift of salvation we give Jesus all our thanks and praise.

But never forget Jesus also came for Scrooge. In Luke 19:1-10, Jesus ﬁnds a Scrooge named Zacchaeus. He’s a rich, chief tax collector, and like Scrooge, he’s hated by everyone in his town. Jesus knows all this, but he does not give up on him. Instead he invites himself over to hang out. This simple gesture of friendship changed the heart of this Scrooge. On the spot, Zack gives away half his possessions to the poor and will pay back anyone he has cheated four times the amount. Jesus’ gesture didn’t just make him a friend – it likely ended poverty in that part of Jericho. More importantly, Jesus ﬁnishes the story by announcing this former Scrooge now had the gift of salvation. Do you have a Scrooge that God might be calling you to love?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, as we prepare for the coming of your Son, we thank you for the blessing of your generosity and forgiveness. We give you thanks for this table, a sign of your gracious love. May this meal strengthen us to be generous and forgiving and to share our gifts with all who look for mercy. Grant this through Christ our Lord, Amen.