O Holy Night
by Kirsten Challies, Spiritual Director and Parish Pastoral Worker Cathedral Parish
On behalf of the Christchurch Diocesan Spiritual Directors Group Whakakōingo o te Ngākau: The Yearning Heart
As our tumultuous global year nears a close, it is only right that we make space for contemplating Jesus’ coming among us to bring light to a fallen world.
Peering into the stable in Bethlehem, we see Mary gazing on the face of her newly born son, looking with wonder at God having come to be among us as her baby, Jesus. The pure and indescribable beauty of her newborn holding back any doubt: “How can I raise the King?”; “Will I be able to teach Him all He needs to know?”
The holy and humble presence of the creator of the universe now lying in her arms, dependent on her loving care, confirming for her that God’s ways are not our ways and God will lead.
As the shepherds approach in awe and wonder, Mary and Joseph’s hearts sing at the hearing of God’s unbounded joy in announcing the birth of Jesus upon this earth. The first experience for humanity, of what would come to be known as “the Trinity”; a sacred scene that would light up the face of the earth forever.
But zoom out - and we see the hustle and bustle of Bethlehem, bulging with Davidic descendants, re-uniting with friends and family, many enjoying the rekindling of those relationships. Others are busy meeting their own needs and those of their families, as they do life away from their home. Days are full - many people to meet, many needs to be met, much to be done.
What strikes me about this scene?
When I consider my own life and the place Jesus takes in it, where would I place myself in this scene?
What might Jesus say to me there?
Emmanuel, God-with-us - how have I encountered God in the people, places, and things of my day?
With our past year having been so fractious around the globe, perhaps this Christmas, we might spend a little extra time in prayer, bringing all those who suffer the ill-effects of war, to the manger, that Jesus might bring His saving grace.
