Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:11-14)
Imagine sitting in the largest stadium ever built, and it’s packed. You’re there because the person (well, if you can call him a person. He’s pretty scary) in the next seat invited you. From one of the locker-room tunnels, a young couple carry a tiny bundle that looks to you like it might be a baby, and… the… crowd… goes…WILD.
I’ve heard complaints that people get all excited at a sporting event, but can’t work up enough oomph to smile at church. Considering the fact that I’m an introvert, I don’t tend to get “all excited” very often in public anyway, but church is one of the few places I can go where I am (sometimes) welcomed and where I can cut loose and enjoy thinking and singing, so in my own way, church is my sporting event, and I am excited even if I don’t look it.
But when it comes to the nativity, I have some struggles. By all means, let’s talk about God incarnate, the Lion of Judah, our Savior… but baby, Jesus? I’m not one of those who “Ooos and Ahs!” well over newborn people. Newborn animals, sure, but miniature people are miniature people.
Sitting in a virtual stadium for the introduction of an infant? Yes, granted, the infant is the King of the Jews, but I’m descended from kings and queens, and I’ve worked with politicians. I’m not impressed by titles. Still, He’s no less God Incarnate.
I’ve heard complaints that people get all excited at a sporting event, but can’t work up enough oomph to smile at church. Considering the fact that I’m an introvert, I don’t tend to get “all excited” very often in public anyway, but church is one of the few places I can go where I am (sometimes) welcomed and where I can cut loose and enjoy thinking and singing, so in my own way, church is my sporting event, and I am excited even if I don’t look it.
But when it comes to the nativity, I have some struggles. By all means, let’s talk about God incarnate, the Lion of Judah, our Savior… but baby, Jesus? I’m not one of those who “Ooos and Ahs!” well over newborn people. Newborn animals, sure, but miniature people are miniature people.
Sitting in a virtual stadium for the introduction of an infant? Yes, granted, the infant is the King of the Jews, but I’m descended from kings and queens, and I’ve worked with politicians. I’m not impressed by titles. Still, He’s no less God Incarnate.
One of my goals this next year is to improve my worship, even if that requires learning to “Ooo and Ah” over a baby.
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