Christmas
Dwelling in the Word, listening, being in conversation with God,
being known, receiving guidance.
Lord Jesus Christ,
You see how bent over we are
Under the weight of the world’s habits.
Unburden us
Clear the path within our soul
Lift up our heads to see you
Our hearts to love you
And welcome your coming.
Christmas
We are fearful people. Each time Gabriel comes, carrying the heavenly birth announcements — to Zechariah, to Mary, to Joseph, and finally to the shepherds — he is met with fear. And to each he brings words of comfort and reassurance: “Don’t be afraid, I bring you good news.” The One who brings the peace we long for, who restores what we lost in Eden, is coming among us.
In response to the fear which grips our souls and races our minds, God comes among us in Jesus — as a baby, born in a stable. God disarms our terror, and invites us close.
We are invited to come as children, to kneel at the manger, to gaze in wonder.
This is the holy pause we need amidst the bustle and traffic of Christmas and New Year’s.
Epiphany: God showing up. Emmanuel.
Lord Jesus
You come to us
In tiny human form
Help me to come and to be present to you -
To be with you
To listen to your cry
With the ears of my heart
Week of Christmas
- 12/21 Monday: John 1:1-13
- 12/22 Tuesday: John 1:14-18
- 12/23 Wednesday: Psalm 147
- 12/24 Thursday: Isaiah 61:10 – 62:3
- 12/25 Christmas Day: Luke 2:1-20; Isaiah 9:2-4,6-7; Titus 2:11-14
- 12/26 Saturday: Galatians 3:23-25; 4:4-7
- 12/27 First Sunday after Christmas: John 1:1-18
Click on “Guidance for Being With” for help with the spiritual disciplines of
Meditation (Lectio Divina) Contemplation of Scripture: entering the narrative, and Consciousness Examen.
Silent Reflection:
Offer the prayer of your heart.