I was recently in a church service that made me cry, and eventually weep. During the service the pastor noted that “Familiarity breeds contempt,” in the context of Pharisaical law and familiarity with the Bible. It rung true for me. We hear the same verses for Christmas. We hear the Gospel preached. The years pass, but do we really hear? I find that I need reminding of God’s truth and promises, but find it difficult to soak in those truths.
During this church service we read scripture and sang hymns— nothing unusual. We were encouraged to truly hear what we sing so often, and truly apply what we read. God ministered to me in those moments. I was moved by the deep story of humanity within the Bible. It is broad and sweeping. It is full of hurt and pain, and it is full of redemption. There is a dichotomy in the human life of being, but not yet fully being. We are sanctified in Christ. We are made holy, righteous, and a carrier of the Holy Spirit. We are filled with new life and light as adopted sons and as brides. Yet we also function in the “not yet.” This earth is not yet fully redeemed. We are not yet perfected as children of God. Our characters are fallible and our flesh is weak. I am whiny! I am fearful! I am selfish and full of worry!
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| The Madonna & Child from Holy Night, after 1652, Carlo Maratta |
When Jesus was born on that evening, he was THE integral piece to the whole sweeping, messy, beautiful story of humanity. The hopes and fears of all the years are found in thee tonight! I am wholly unable to express the greatness of our Christ. Not only is it something theologically fascinating, but it is experientially overwhelming. How do I respond? Thankfulness? Tears? Joy and laughter? A life surrendered? My response will be unique, just as yours will be, but I can say that I am more free than I have ever been. I hope to be more thankful, more loving and merciful, less fearful, and more joyful. I also hope to share these things with friends and family, and to pray and love with greater fervor.
