Simply Soul Searching
HOW IS GOD LOVING ME – AND WHERE IS GOD LEADING ME?
NURTURE OUR HEARTS IN LOVE: REST AND REFRESH
FRIDAY, CHRISTMAS WEEK: LOVE
As we close our Preparing Room series, I thank you for your presence and for your kind words and prayers along the way. I hope that you had a blessed Christmas, and that goodness will shine upon you in the new year.
During Advent, I came upon several social media posts that either doubted or defended the nativity story, especially concerning the immaculate conception of Jesus. As I learn more about the Bible, its context, and the intention of the writers, I too, have questions–but here are my heartfelt thoughts for the season…
I treasure the nativity story for its beautiful narrative and meaning as part of my faith tradition. Whether the story is fact or folklore, I long to love God with the trust of Mary, the acceptance of Joseph, the eagerness of the shepherds, the joy of the angels, the desire of the magi. I can set aside the accuracy of the details and cling to the holy mystery and essence of the story–the wonder, humility, joy, and simplicity of the birth of Jesus. The truth I glean is that God’s Love is present with us here, expanding our own capacity for Love.
Considering the miracles of how the universe first came to be, the intricate complexity of creation, the power in particles of energy, I find it possible that Jesus was conceived immaculately, but my faith in Jesus is not contingent on this detail. I follow Jesus, not for the way he came to be, but for the way he lived. I am drawn to him–compelled by him–because he revealed God’s love for us, God’s presence with us, by living in radical love, defending the marginalized, healing and feeding those in need, teaching with wisdom and insight, extending and encouraging forgiveness, inviting us to follow him, and loving God and all people.
I love Jesus as a beloved son of God–and trust that his life was created in whatever perfect way God allowed that to happen.
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“Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?” Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” (Matthew 22:36-39)
In all my uncertainty, I know that we are called to follow the ways of Jesus; we are to love God and one another. With all my doubts, I trust that I am understood and forgiven. Amid all my questions, I rest in the assurance that we are loved by God–for Jesus has certainly shown this to be true.
Bible verses are NRSVUE, found at https://www.biblegateway.com/
Photo by Karen
Simply Soul Searching 
Dear Karen, your last paragraph sums it up for me. One of my favorite pastors once said to me, “Jesus has written his name on your heart.” Those words pierced me like an arrow and have stayed with me over many years. In my confusion, questioning and doubt, Jesus has remained a constant. His example has been a guiding light. I realize that I don’t need to have all the answers about him, or perfect theology. His presence is always there and his abundant love is free to share with others.
Wishing you and Jim a very Happy New Year!
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Thank you, for the good wishes, MaryEllen! And I am always grateful for your insights. I know we have been on similar journeys–and we are both thankful for God’s constant presence and abundant love through every step. Happy New Year to you both!
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