Season of Advent: Day 7

Season of Advent

Joy, Day 7

Reading:

“While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them at the inn’”[1]

Reflection:

Whether we believe the actual birth of Jesus to be an extra-magical event that occurred in a cattle-stall in 1^st century Bethlehem is probably not the important point of the story. The more important point is that a baby was born in challenging circumstances…and God was with him. There is nothing magical or unusual about that because it has been repeated countless times every day since, up to, and including today. Even those of us privileged enough to have been born to two loving parents with a home to grow up in face numerous challenges, not the least of which is making room for a new life to grow and thrive. Parenting is an all-consuming, transformative task with its own unique demands and rewards.

            Christmas for us, however, is less about a baby being born somewhere far off in space and time and more about a new life emerging from within us. Like a human newborn, that new life requires space and attention. It requires a rearranging of schedules and priorities in ways that accommodate its needs. Such changes bring their own challenges, demands, and rewards. Like parenting, the birth of the Christ-child within changes us in irreversible ways. And we would not have it any other way.

Closing Meditation:

In what ways can you rearrange your life in order to make room for the holy child within you to emerge and grow? How can it become a living reality for you this season and always? Ponder these questions during a time of quiet reflection.

Journal the thoughts and feelings that arise.

This daily series, Contemplative Christmas, is replacing my weekly Life Notes until January 6, 2026, when my weekly blog will resume. The thoughts expressed here are mine. To engage with me: ghildenbrand@outlook.com.

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[1] Luke 2:6-7