So far we have thought about advent from the perspective of the OT. When we were BC people. Our lives before Christ. Then, we reflected on the world-wide spread of the promise of salvation. It came to the “east” with the magi, and to us, through seed of promise given thousands of years before.
Christmas day now draws near, and we can imagine the various participants beginning to gather.
The fore runner, John the Baptist, then Matry and Joseph.
Shepherd and Magi. Each in turn will hear and receive the annunciation that transforms their lives. Each will respond with faith.
John Donne’s poem “Annunciation” is helpful.
Salvation to all that will is nigh;
That All, which always is all everywhere,
Which cannot sin, and yet all sins must bear,
Which cannot die, yet cannot choose but die.
This is an abbreviated extract. I recommend reading the poem in its entirety.
The poem begins by reminding us that these annunciations are for us too. We are the “all” that Donne imagines. It is our salvation that drew near. No sooner has this universal proclamation been made, that includes us within it, than its direction expands again. The “All” of the second line is capitalised.
“That “All” which always is all everywhere”. The God that is All, omnipresent, omniscient, immense, is everywhere.
It is worth reminding ourselves of this beautiful inclusion, this immense universal truth, the All, that reaches from heaven, comes to and for us.
Donne tells us once again of the great work to be done. “All sins to bear”.
He then finished the poem with this beautiful phrase. “Immensity, cloistered in thy dear womb”.
God, in flesh, in Mary.
Prayer
Lord, we come with eager anticipation of all that the day of days brings.
We renew within ourselves a vision for your perfect kingdom.
We confess our failures and shortcomings, seeking your pardon for those sins that frustrate your kingdom purposes. We receive the grace of your forgiveness, with humility, into our hearts.
We enter this day with gladness, that the immensity that is you, is present in us.
Guide us Lord we pray, in love, light and peace.
Amen.