December 24
Christmas Eve. A day to celebrate our journey of Advent.
Even before getting out of bed, the gift of the train's whistle arrived through
the quiet winter air calling me, saying, "Get ready. The journey is
complete. Just get on board. Just thank the Lord."
It seems everything I read this morning has the theme of the
journey. Wise men traveling their slow journey across the desert. Shepherds following a star. Family members
arriving to be welcomed home. And we, too, have traveled together, writing and reading,
as our hearts have journeyed to prepare for this Coming - this Advent. And I
must ask myself as you must, "Am I different this year?"
Listen to Henri Nouwen's thoughts:
"God came to us because he wanted to join us on the
road, to listen to our story, and to help us realize that we are not walking in
circles but moving towards the house of peace and joy. This is the great
mystery of Christmas that continues to give us comfort and consolation: we are
not alone on our journey. The God of love who gave us life sent us his only Son
to be with us at all times and in all places, so that we never have to feel
lost in our struggles but always can trust that he walks with us...
Christmas is the renewed invitation not to be afraid and let
him - whose love is greater than our own hearts and minds can comprehend - be
our companion." (Gracias! A Latin
American Journal)
I love the thought of Jesus walking with us on our life
journey. I love the idea that this is our greatest gift - a gift of love offered
freely to all who will receive it. I love this annual "renewed
invitation" for opening the gift again, receiving it with greater
acceptance and deeper humility with each passing year.
As with any journey, we must gather up our traveling things
and prepare for our destination. Today, tonight, let us make room for this
wondrous event. Let us witness angels singing and stars dancing in the night
sky.
"Into this silent night
as we make our weary way
we know not where,
just when the night becomes its darkest
and we cannot see our path,
just then
is when the angels rush in,
their hands full of stars."
(Ann Weems, Kneeling in Bethlehem)
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