December 10thFive Minutes on Friday #10
ADVENT
‘Way back in the 13th century, Bernard of Clairvaux, who was the founder of the Cistercian order of monks, said that Christ comes to is in three different ways: firstly, in Bethlehem at Christmas; secondly, at the end of the age; and thirdly, in the lives of believers every single day.’ [Lectio365, Dec. 5/21]
Maranatha – Come, Lord Jesus.
DECEMBER 9
Martin de Porres (1579-1639) was a Dominican brother who is often celebrated by people of mixed-races, and by those committed to ending racism and segregation. He was born in Lima, Peru, son of a Spanish nobleman and a former slave. Having grown up familiar with poverty and prejudice, he became a passionate advocate for those on the margins. Martin is often depicted with a broom because he considered all work sacred and was committed to service and sacrifice. [Common Prayer, 58]
ADVENT 3
In this Sunday’s Old Testament reading, there is a lovely line:
‘The Lord your God is in your midst…He will exult over you with loud singing…’ (Zephaniah 3.17). God seems almost giddy with glee. God takes total delight in His people. Imagine standing at the airport as your family comes for a long anticipated visit. Parents, grandparents and grandchildren dance with delight as they embrace each other. There is total, unabashed exuberance.
Such exuberance, says the prophet, is characteristic of God who welcomes us home with joy and song. This week, Advent is a party.
O Magnum Mysterium describes the wonderment of the animals as they gaze on Christ: “O great mystery and wonderful sacrament, that animals should see the newborn Lord, lying in a manger!”