The Nativity scene, a favored image for the Christmas Season, is familiar to most everyone. In the manger we see the Holy Family, shepherds, wise men, animals, and angels- quite a crowd! But, to try to understand this scene and reduce it to mere historically verifiable elements is to miss the significance of the scene. Clustered around the baby are representatives of all cultures and stations; from heavenly angels to rough and earthy shepherds to the astrologers who charted the rising of the star. The visitors who paid homage to the new born baby illustrate the expanse of the Kingdom that will be established. The Messiah will establish a Kingdom that will cross and break the barriers of ethnicity and culture. Entry into the Kingdom will not be based on birthright or nationality- it will be based on faith and good will toward men. The Nativity transcends history and overshadows myth- those who try to understand it in these terms miss its importance- and shows the ultimate intervention and revelation of God- the Messiah, now wrapped in swaddling clothes and safe with Mary. It heralds a universal Kingdom that endures forever. Blessed Christmas to all
Posted on: Tue, 23 Dec 2014 16:41:42 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015