The profound mystery of God becoming man, given flesh by a virgin has become more real to me this year than ever before. More likely than not, because I spent most of the fall contemplating Mary and what she did for us. That it actually happened, not just some story we tell around the 25th of December each year. How God could be limited by flesh, and not at the same time… and what that means for you and me. The absolute absurdity that this could, or even would, happen brings me to my knees.
Reason wants to explain it away. How could a virgin have a child? Is there something she left out of her story? Was she really visited by an Angel? Did the Angel really appear to Joseph, or was his dream more of a sub-conscious sorting out things as his life completely turned upside down?
Not that I do, but even discounting the events that led up to his birth, the fact that all of creation is freaking out continues to speak of what an amazing thing God did. Angels are singing from the heavens and proclaiming good news to all that would listen. A star, shining brighter than ever, marked the exact place where God became man. 3 men traveled years to be there, bringing gifts and prophecies. Mary’s faith is stronger than mine, but even if she didn’t need reassurance. I wonder if their presence along with the shepherds brought some relief… or perhaps (as it does for me) served to increase her faith.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining,
Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.
Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angels' voices!
Oh night divine, Oh night when Christ was born;
The King of Kings lay thus in lowly manger;
In all our trials born to be our friend.
He knows our need, to our weakness is no stranger,
Behold your King! Before Him lowly bend
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