Trust in What Is Being Born
Ron Harmon, Council of Twelve Apostles
Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see-I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people; to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. -Luke 2:9-11
I remember as though it were yesterday the birth of my three children. Let me first acknowledge that we fathers have it easy. We have the privilege of just taking it all in. I can only describe the event itself as intense, unsettling, and full of immense joy.
As I reflect on each experience, it is in those first moments after birth where the real trust begins. You have responsibility for this precious little life that is totally dependent on your loving care. They don’t send you home with an owner’s manual, and even Google can provide conflicting answers to the daily questions that arise.
You soon discover that birth is only the beginning. Birth launches a process of discovery, struggle, uncertainty, and endless joy. You can’t predict what each day will bring but learn to trust in your capacity to learn, adapt, and grow. In moments of struggle, you discover something deep within-an inner strength and capacity to navigate each challenge along the way.
I imagine Mary must have felt the full spectrum of emotions in the hours after the birth of her son. We read in Luke 2:17-19, “When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” She must have held close feelings of indescribable love and uncertainty in those first moments. She did not know they would be fleeing to Egypt or that this precious life would become a threat to the most powerful empire on earth.
As we celebrate the birth of the Peaceful One, we pause and hold close in our hearts a love that knows no bounds. We treasure these moments knowing beyond the confines of our hearts are conflict and suffering. We trust not in the birth alone but what is being born in each of us this day and every day. We trust in the vision of a new community where each precious life will be held in loving care.
Prayer Phrase
“Trust what is being born.”
Spiritual Practice
Jesus, the Peaceful One
We have spent this year with a guiding question: Are we moving closer to Jesus, the Peaceful One? As we near the end of this calendar year, we review how this question has been shaping and forming us. In our thoughts, words, and actions, have we been embodying Jesus, the Peaceful One? What might it look like to move closer to Jesus, the Peaceful One as we make space in our lives for Christ incarnate this Advent season?
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
