For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. —Isaiah 9: 6
A dear friend told me about how hard her mother worked every Advent season to get everything “just right” for Christmas. Maybe she hated it and felt it was a heavy burden to meet so many expectations. On Christmas Eve, we find ourselves in a season of obligation that often feels measured by some unspoken standard. When the packages are all unwrapped and the goodies consumed, many of us tumble into bed grateful the fuss is all over. There is so much effort and for what?
Why do we celebrate Christmas or even birthdays in such extravagant ways? Is it to honor the infant growing into personhood? Is it the opportunity to walk down memory lane and be reminded of the love and care we have for another human being? Is it our chance to give thanks for the gifts and presence others bring into our lives and to gather with others who have similar memories, love and thanks?
During Advent I wonder if we can fully understand the true reason for all the celebration? In this season we celebrate a god who would humble himself to be born as the baby, and the Christ who died living in obedience to God. We celebrate a life offered as an example of what God wishes us to be, do and value. We celebrate “believing” even when.
Like so many others, I too find the coming of Christmas to be a bit overwhelming. I struggle with trying to live up to what is expected of me and all the different feelings I experience. At times I feel as if I feel as if I am missing out on something because I am frantically trying to embrace all the festivities and trappings of the holiday.
It was Kierkegaard that said that a faith that did not require struggle was not the kind of faith worth having, and so, perhaps it is okay to struggle in this season. I am reminded each Advent of the struggle of Mary; too young, unwed, and faced with visions and demands from angels. Perhaps our struggle is necessary to grow in faith and to believe in the times when hope seems small. We are called, after all, to walk by faith this Advent season and always. May you discover God’s great gift of love for you this Christmas Eve.
Holy God, you come to us as a tiny baby. Like you, we too struggle to find our path and footing this Christmas Eve. Yet, still you come to us! Humble our hearts and make us attentive to the great gift of love you have for us.
In His Service,
Pastor Deirdré
Read other Advent 2020 Devotionals or download the book as a PDF.