Immanuel
Every year we are encouraged not to forget the real meaning of Christmas. We recall again the story of the baby, the angels, the shepherd and kings, and words like incarnation, salvation and saviour come to mind. Perhaps we watch as our fellow pilgrims strain to find new ways to present the old and familiar story in fresh and engaging ways.
All appropriate.
All have their place.
But do I allow the idea… the pivotal idea… like a seed planted in the soil, to put down roots?
Immanuel… God… With… Us…
I invite you to take some time to ponder on the greatness of God. Look up at the myriad stars in the night sky. Look for new growth pushing up through dead leaves. Call to mind the moments when you have touched the edge of heaven. Stay with those thoughts as long as you can.
Then, when you have felt the boundlessness of God who is mysterious and unfathomable, move on to ponder the pivotal idea of Christmas. That this God drew equal, stands in front of you and looks you full in the face.
How would you react if he, quite literally, knocked on your door? Because in essence that’s what happened. The divine pulled on boots and walked up to your door.
Happy Christmas.