Contemplative Christmas

Saturday, January 4

The Tenth Day

Reading:

“Transformation is a process. The accurate language for faith is not that ‘we are saved’ but that we are ‘being saved.’” [1]

Reflection:

In the song, the gift of the tenth day of Christmas is ten-Lords-a-leaping. Ten refers to the Ten Commandments, and Lords imply authority or governing power. Thus, this gift refers to the potential governing power of the Ten Commandments of Judeo-Christian history. Ten is also an important number in other religious systems, including Hinduism with the Ten Avatars of Vishnu.

            The number 10 has many symbolic implications. It often signifies universality since it combines 1 for new beginnings and 0 for wholeness or infinite potential. Ten is also the sum of the numbers 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4, so it contains symbolic inferences from each of those numbers, too. Some consider 10 to be the ideal or perfect number that bridges the physical and spiritual worlds. Because 10 begins the second counting cycle of base-ten numbers it symbolizes beginning again or rebirth, but at a higher level of understanding and capability.

            Regarding the symbolism of the 12 days of Christmas and how it impacts us, yesterday I wrote that “no one has ever found a single thought, image, or dream in any part of our body.” Many assume consciousness originates from and resides in the brain, which is simply not true. Our brain and nervous system are intermediaries that translate non-physical energies into physical action. They are where spirit connects with body. It is not so much that our consciousness exists outside of our body as that consciousness exists in a non-physical realm – in another dimension, perhaps. Bodies have tangible limits to their expression, but consciousness does not. Nor is our consciousness ours alone but is intertwined with others across space and time. Religious and other symbolism, including that of the 12 days of Christmas, connects our experience to the vast universe of consciousness.   

The unfathomable span and depth of consciousness is the source of every creative act – from the creation of the universe, as told allegorically in Genesis, to every poem, painting, piece of music, kindness, and every other creative expression. Unseen energy (inspiration) enters into us, is modified by our essential nature, and emerges into the world through us.

Closing Meditation:

As you ponder the past year, what lessons-learned do you hope to carry into the new one?

Journal the thoughts and feelings that arise.

This daily series, Contemplative Christmas, is replacing my weekly Life Notes until January 6, 2025, when my weekly blog will resume. The thoughts expressed here are mine. To engage with me: ghildenbrand@outlook.com.

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[1] Richard Rohr, Daily Meditations, August 4, 2024.