The theme for this fourth Sunday in Advent is trust. God is trustworthy. Are people? Here are some helpful signs: 1. They are consistent. 2. They show compassion and humility. 3. They respect boundaries. 4. They compromise and don't expect something for nothing. 5. They're relaxed (and so are you). 6. They are respectful when it comes to time. 7. They show gratitude. 8. They give up all the facts, even if it hurts. 9. They confide in you. 10. They aren't materialistic or desperate for money. 11. They're right a lot. 12. They don't gossip. 13. They're learners. 14. You know whom they're connected to, and they try to connect you. 15. They are there for you and others.
Trust takes a lifetime to build and a second to lose. Consistent behavior is one of the key factors in developing trust. Another key factor is from an ancient word not often used called "troth" as in "I pledge my troth to you" in wedding vows. Troth is the root word of betrothal - the promise of love and loyalty in marriage. The word troth is derived from the middle age word for truth. To be trustworthy means to be truthful.
Trust in God. Be trustworthy yourself. Be discerning of others before you trust them.
Blessings,
Pastor Curtis