December 21, 2022

Among the Christmas decorations in my childhood home was a version of Mary and baby Jesus that appeared on our front door. It was shiny – and perhaps mod in the fashion of the 1960’s. It also frightened the pants off me as a 5 year old. I called it “The Monster Lady” and begged my mother to take it down. Thus, the early roots of my convinced Protestantism were on display.

However, where would we be without Mary? Her response to the inconceivable announcement of the angel about her conception is a wonder to behold. “And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.” (Luke 1:38)

Let it be to me according to your word. What a thing to say. What a thing I would wish to say to God in all things. How about you?

“Purify our conscience, Almighty God, by your daily visitation, that your Son Jesus Christ, at his coming, may find in us a mansion prepared for himself; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.” (Fourth Sunday of Advent – BCP)