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December 19, 2024Doubt is a funny thing. Now, I consider myself something of a pragmatist and a practical person. I am someone guided by facts, and logic, and reason. And so, doubt comes easy to me – everything needs to make sense, it needs to line up before I trust it. I’m not sure what I would have done if I were Manoah or Zechariah.
Both of our Scripture readings today speak of un-probable events. Barren women giving birth to sons, who change the course of history. Samson won victory over his foes to restore the glory of Israel. John the Baptist foretold the coming of the Messiah, sent by God to bring salvation. All of these things improbable, unexpected, against practicality and reason. And yet, over and over again, God shows us that he will do incredible things – that with him, nothing is impossible. The story of Mary and Joseph, the birth of Jesus, shows us this too. And yet, all God asks is that we trust him, that we cast away our doubts and trust him.
Soon, we celebrate the feast of the Incarnation, Christmas, the celebration of the coming of Christ – and indeed, Christ will come, one way or another. Practical or not – just as he did in a stable 2,000 years ago. Do we trust and believe his coming? Do we make room for him in our lives, in our hearts – allowing his will, God’s will, to take hold?
Advent is about making room for Christ, about preparing the way as John the Baptist did, for the coming of our savior. About getting ready to receive him anew, and to let him take hold of our lives so that we can follow him. Christmas is coming, ready or not. More important than gifts, decorations, and holiday cookies is our hearts. Are they open, ready to celebrate Christ, to greet him when he comes again?
