Unprepared

"...we are most prepared for Christ,

for Christmas, when we confess 

we are mostly not prepared.

Rest here.

There is only room in us

when we are done with us."

--Ann Voskamp

"The Greatest Gift"

I started early

planned wisely

so sure that this year I would arrive at today

and have my soul

prepared

I see now the arrogance

that somehow 

this is all dependent on my doing

that with time set aside

and a heart desiring to be awakened

somehow

I would be ready for my Lord

But now

with clearer vision

I 

see

Him

This holy God

emptying His glory

for my vain attempts

at 

holding on to "my glory"

My efforts are as filthy rags

my preparations so lacking

I come to the manger

aware of my emptiness

longing for Him

to fill my own womb-space

with

Himself

El Shaddai

I rest in You

I worship You

 

Glory

"And the Word became flesh

and dwelt among us

and we beheld His glory,

glory as of the only begotten

from the Father

full of grace and truth."

--John 1:14

Not distant and unapproachable

but tiny fingers... toes

and that baby-fresh scent

No longer housed in a tabernacle

out of reach

but indwelling the babe

the God-man

and 

yes,

now indwelling me!

You bid me shed and surrender

the glory I horde for myself

that I may 

be blinded

by Yours

Continue Your emptying of me

that there might be a filling

to overflowing

 of Your grace and truth

What Child is This?

I am struck with new intensity

this mystery of God taking on human flesh

divinity co-mingling with humanity

Emmanuel has become

my sympathizing High Priest!

Oh praise be!

Tempted yes...

but without sin!

Understanding my human condition yes...

yet...

the Giver of mercy

the Extender of Grace

for my every need.

I am humbled, grateful, in awe of this

indescribable gift!

"Why lies He in such mean estate,

Where ox and ass are feeding?

Good Christian, fear:  for sinners here

The silent Word is pleading:

Nails, spear, shall pierce Him through,

The cross be borne, for me, for you:

Hail, hail the Word made flesh,

The Babe, the Son of Mary"

--William C. Dix

"What Child is This?"