Christmas Day
Reflection
There is a nostalgic side to many of us that enjoys the beautiful Norman Rockwell Christmas art — images of happy families around the decorated tree, or a gentle Santa Claus looking at sleeping toddlers. And the Hallmark TV specials we delighted in as children can still stir something sentimental with us! Lately, however, I am drawn to sacred memories of the Incarnation that pull me deeper.
For example, as a pastor, I reverenced the energy and liveliness of the RCIA Monday evening session. It seems there was a wonderful exchange of differing ideas and opinions. I felt the same at Finance or School Board meetings — truly a dialogue of information, attitudes and feelings. As we conclude Advent this year and begin the season (the wonderful mystery) of Christmas, the readings call us to ponder the diversity of its characters.
Jesus Christ comes to shepherds and astrologers, young and old, believers and doubters, rich and poor.
Daily, we are reminded of our need to understand other cultures, religions, ways of life and opinions. Maybe that is why the Synod focused so often on (Isaiah 54:2 — “Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back.”) the challenge to “stretch the poles of our tents.”
I have several stoles that a generous woman in Florida (Linda Schäpper, who died last May) made for me, vestments that are lovingly sewn with quilted patches of fabric.
So, I am often reminded of the reality that out of the mixture of many different colors and patterns come such beauty and order… just look at the “patchwork” of nature!
And this year, along with Handel’s Messiah, or Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life, maybe I will celebrate diversity with the Child in the manger.
