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“So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger.” Luke 2:16
Each Advent season our family has enjoyed taking part in re-enactments of the nativity provided by local churches. The year our youngest daughter was two, her older sister eagerly described what we would encounter when we arrived at the Bethlehem Marketplace. In this portrayal of the nativity, a church’s family life center was transformed into a town marketplace as it might have been at the time of the birth of Jesus. Complete with live animals, it had all the sounds, smells, and even the crowds of a biblical town center.
As we walked from the parking lot toward the church, both children, squealing with delight, ran to pet the animals. After spending what seemed to me an eternity with the sheep and cows, we then began to make our way toward the booths – filled with wares of fragrant oils and tasty foods. The rest of my family was mesmerized with all that the market had to offer. All I could think of was how much longer I could stand being stuck in a crowd, with all those sounds and smells – and besides, I knew the whole nativity story anyway.
Suddenly, my youngest daughter grabbed my arm, saying, “Listen, Mommy! The angels are singing! We have to hurry – Baby Jesus is born!” As she ran through the crowd, I was more concerned about losing her among so many people than listening to any music. Suddenly, as we rounded the corner, I heard the most beautiful singing – it was the angels praising God. And there he was, Baby Jesus, with Mary and Joseph. As I both looked in the manger and watched my daughter’s face, I understood what all the excitement was about…such complete joy at seeing the Lord.
Holy Lord, may we never take Your Word made flesh for granted. Help us to hurry to see You this Advent season. Open our eyes, ears and hearts to the many ways You show your love. Amen.
Margaret Davis Freeman |
