Do You Hear What I Hear?
We’ve all done it. We’ve all “spoken” about (translation: preached) the birth of Christ, more than once. Seriously, can you ever get tired of the true Christmas story?! There are so many aspects of the gospels’ accounts, of the prophecies, of the backstory (aka genealogy), and of the “players” (Mary, Joseph, shepherds, angels, foreigners…the birth…). In so many ways, pondering it deeply, it is too much to take in! After studying and retelling the story so many times, I have to ask…Do you have a favorite part? You know you do!
Explain your favorite part, and why, to someone this week. It’s a form of honoring the story, and praising God!
Personally, I’m drawn to the relationship between Elizabeth and Mary. Both had angelic visitations, and a word from God that transformed their lives, and their trajectories as women. This unparalleled experience also drew them together. This happened to their husbands, too. Talk about mutual experiences that bond you together! The two mothers also saw their sons die tragically, with the angel’s divine words of prophecy echoing in their ears…
That key moment (Luke 1.39-45) when Mary approached Elizabeth and she felt her fetus jump. How those two women were linked together. How close their relationship must have been! Personally, I wish Dr. Luke had written an “appendix”, sharing more about the bond these two shared. Their relationship contained a deep sense of connection, a high degree of vulnerability. There is no real connection relationally unless we are vulnerable. This relationship also reflected empathy. Empathy is that “I know that feeling” sensation. It does not control the conversation, nor the relationship. Empathy is not judgmental. It causes us to say, “tell me more”. Without it, in a conversation or in a relationship, we shut people down.
Here’s a side bar note…”9 of 10 young adults [in America] who do not go to church, see Christians as judgmental”. Could it be that we need healthier listening skills and healthier relationships?
Looking through the glass, we can see a reflection of the Church in the Christmas story. The story of redemption that began with prophecies is extended to the marginalized (shepherds who weren’t allowed in the Temple without extensive cleansing). It includes women (in the genealogy, angelic visitations to and the roles of Elizabeth and Mary) and the elderly (Simon and Anna on the temple steps). Foreigners and refugees (the magi and the exodus to Egypt). The overarching presence, protection and provision of God in every detail is awe-inspiring. Those that experienced it went out telling others about what they had heard and seen. Throughout, it’s a story about relationships, human connection and a loving God who is present. This is a story that never gets old!
Dave Manske
Missions Mobilizer