Our belief about Incarnation, recorded seventeen hundred years ago:
For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven: by the power of the Holy Spirit he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary, and was made man. (Nicene Creed)
A report from shepherds at the first Christmas:
...the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 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 2:10-14)
Nascent theology from the Gospel of John:
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:16)
Holy Spirit,
On this Christmas Eve,
turn our ancient story to belief,
and belief to presence,
and presence to experience
of your glory.
In believing, in knowing,
in holy companionship,
may we live in truth
with grace-filled lives.
Amen.
