What an unlikely place to be on the eve of bearing God’s child!
As if they had not already gone through enough. I wonder what it was like for Joseph and Mary to prepare for this moment. It seems that trying to make any plans was futile. Mary and Joseph began with certain images of what their life would be like. After all they were raised in a close community–they were trained in the tradition of their ancestors–their life would be a mirror of their parents and grandparents. Of course we know the story. Nothing about the life that Mary and Joseph shared would be like their close relatives.
Nestled in the midst of a town named in the prophets, they would constantly be challenged to comprehend where they belonged. Visited by angels and encouraged by dreams this family would begin with little security and carry with them a different understanding of belonging.
Belonging to a greater community and charged to raise the child who would grow to lead a new “Way”. These parents would always have to step back in the quiet and trust.
What an unlikely place to be on the eve of bearing God’s child! In a stable, far from home – alert and aware. Isn’t it true – in the most uncomfortable moment we can find the greatest strength?! When all of the familiar is torn away, the night sky is brighter and strangers become friends.
The story is told that a child was born tonight. Vulnerable and yet determined – determined to sit in the center of this fragile earth and make it home.
Come Lord Jesus, our guest to be…
(Pre)Occupied
Few have been this preoccupied with tents
since you recklessly pitched one among us.
I would have chosen something more stable,
not quite so porous and vulnerable,
safe, secure, readily significant,
and missed the whisper of evening breezes,
the restless susurration of canvas,
and that one appearing in the shadows,
light flinting off flesh in a fading sun,
fireflies dancing in the night,
rousing my longing
to step into your own
luminous darkness.
The Rev. Jay Johnson – Peculiar Faith
Carrie's Bench 