I had a quiet week, pretty much, but only because I was down with a bug. Had some time to think about the season when I wasn’t sleeping, which I did… a lot, and when I wasn’t groggy from coughing and cough medicine. As such, my thinking was somewhat muddled most of the week. Sadly, I slept through Christmas Eve festivities with family, but rallied to spend Christmas Day awake and aware and participating in the present-swapping and all the gift giving. It all was followed up by an amazing prime rib dinner prepared by my son-in-law’s amazing mom. I did help by making the pumpkin pies… It was a beautiful day, spent with loved ones.
On the way home, I tried again to think about this season and it’s meaning and here’s my best, befuddled, shot.
Even though the angels were awash in celebration and amazement at what was happening, the world was silent. It’s called “Silent Night” for a reason. Not much was happening, though much was happening. Roman taxation and occupation was going on. There were thieves thieving and murderers murdering. There was pain and anguish all around. But there was also silence, a sense of foreboding and darkness. No one knew, save a few shepherds and their sheep what happened that night, because the angels finally had permission to pierce that veil and announce the Good News.
My week began quietly enough, in bed asleep, while tragedies abounded around the world. Babies were dying, hate prevailed, pain and grief brought many low. My week continued, quietly, though restlessly, as I fought this bug. Fighting continued around the world, continues as I write. We are surrounded by darkness.
And in that time of darkness long ago, God entered the world. He came as a vulnerable baby to share our grief and join in our suffering. But He didn’t stop there. He gave His perfectly lived life as ransom for many. The spotless lamb was sacrificed, and raised from the dead to provide salvation that is today offered to you and me.
I said it would be befuddled… but it’s all I got. Maybe these songs will help explain better what I’m trying to say… I know they’re from the same album, but I think they are really good!
Merry Christmas.
All Things Elda 