O come thou wisdom from oh high, and order all things…

Photo by KaLisa Veer on Unsplash‍

By Rev. Jeanne Randall-Bodman

The author of Luke begins the story of Jesus with these words: “In the time of Herod…”
It might just be an ancient form of dating — “in the fifth year of the reign of so-and-so.” But in this case, I think it’s also a reminder that Jesus entered a fearful world, one filled with rampant oppression, economic disparity, uncertainty, and instability. A world not so unlike our own.

And in that fearful time, as Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the magi are called, one by one, into God’s redemptive story, we hear the call of the angels — “Do not be afraid.”
And one by one we see Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the magi move through their fears. They ask questions, hold fast to courage, trust in good news, and say, “Here I am, Lord.”

This advent we will listen once again for the voice of holy messengers reminding us to take heart, reminding us that the story of Christ’s birth truly is good news of great joy for all people. We will look honestly at the fear and terror looming in the background during the time of King Herod and the fears we hold now.

We have daily evidence of the ways fear can be used as a tool of oppression, to divide and paralyze us. But perhaps if we listen deeply to our ancient stories, we can allow the energy of fear to join hands with hope. Maybe that clear-eyed hope can keep us energized for continued love and action.  Perhaps acknowledging our fears will help us see more clearly the constant presence and power of Love in the world.

In this season may Holy Wisdom gather our fearful, hopeful souls to herself and send us out to spread love.

Wishing you a blessed advent, a joyful Christmas, and a hope-filled New Year.