One of the realities that captures me most at Christmas is the meaning of Emmanuel – “God with us.” I love thinking of God as an infant, God as a fellow traveler, God as our sibling and friend. It’s one of the unique traits of Yahweh — this willingness, even eagerness, to be near to us. In reality, or as a truth-bearing myth, this concept brings me peace.
Our modern mystic, Brennan Manning, captures God-with-us quite wonderfully in one of his Advent pieces. Here it is for you now, a little present from me to you.
Watch for the Light: Readings for Advent and Christmas
Orbis Books, 2001
“Shipwrecked at the Stable”
Do you think you could contain Niagra Falls in a teacup?
Is there anyone in our midst who pretends to understand the awesome love in the heart of the Abba of Jesus that inspired, motivated and brought about Christmas? The shipwrecked at the stable kneel in the presence of mystery.
God entered our world not with the crushing impact of unbearable glory, but in the way of weakness, vulnerability and need. On a wintry night in an obscure cave, the infant Jesus was a humble, naked, helpless God who allowed us to get close to him.
We all know how difficult it is to receive anything from someone who has all the answers, who is completely cool, utterly unafraid, needing nothing and in control of every situation. We feel unnecessary, unrelated to this paragon. So God comes as a newborn baby, giving us a chance to love him, making us feel that we have something to give him.
P.s. I also recommend listening to Bruce Cockburn’s tune Big Circumstance, which references this piece, and Cry of a Tiny Babe, which is one of my favorites. Peace to you this Christmas day.
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But, Rachelle, if it’s just myth, rather than reality, how can it bring peace? Isn’t it just a delusion to think otherwise?
Lovely sentiment from Manning, and we like Cockburn, too.
Thank you for this lovely present, which I opened this morning, on the 3rd Day of Christmas.
I think I understand what you mean by truth-bearing myths. This passage helps me understand some difficult concepts.
Imagine finding you after searching for pantoum information! Our pastor walked us through creating one, one day. I wanted to know more about the form so I searched and found your former site. After 4 blessed meetings, a small Advent group I have ben in concluded that we should continue meeting just for the community and support shared around a living room. So, your former abbey caught my attention. Also, we’re just a little south of Seattle.
Best wishes for your new adventures!
visitng you always brightens my day…may the spirit of a new year fill your home with an abundance of love, laughter, and joy…may the magic of the moment bring peace to your heart all year long…may your creativity take you to amazing places and may you experience the resulting bliss…much love you and your family…rebecca