December 21

December 21
Advent 4 – Ghost of Christmas Future

The ghost of Christmas Future appears to Scrooge. Unlike the other ghosts, this one does not speak. Be it a case of action speaking louder than words; or for some other reason; this is a major turning point in the life of Scrooge. This is the ghost that will lead him to repentance, reminding us that Scrooge’s actions and words were hurtful to many souls prior to this moment.
In our own lives, we may reflect on our actions and words and may ponder repentance.

For Scrooge, the pivotal moment is when he falls into his own grave and is face to face with the dead Scrooge. It is here, face to face with self, that he is forced to reconcile who he is to who he wants to be. Driven by the fear of death, or driven by the fear of judgment; Scrooge vows to turn over a new leaf, to become new.
Christ enters the world to offer us a time to “vow” to turn over a new leaf through repentance and become new creatures in Christ.
As we draw closer to Christmas, be mindful that “there is a balm in Gilead” that is born in Bethlehem and placed in a manger.