Advent 2023–Make Space for Mystery

WEEK 3

In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David.  He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child.  While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no place in the guest room.

Census and Decree.

In a world preoccupied with stories of power and an ethos of possession,

We look for the unexpected places God is at work in the world.

Risk and Road.

Where journey brings us to familiars and leaves us in unfamiliars,

We look for the unexpected places God is at work in the world.

Time and Manger.

When we believe there is no place for us and fear and doubt begin to take root,

We look for the unexpected places God is at work in the world.

She Births—

And softly covers her beloved in table linens,

Lying him down for rest in a trough.

Prepared as a dish for serving.

“This is My body which is broken for you. Do this in remembrance of Me.”

We look for the unexpected places God is at work in the world.

Living Bread,

Who comes to us unexpectedly

Make yourself known to us through

Blessed Sacrament and Symbol.

Let us gaze into the mystery by which Incarnation extends to all souls and lives.

I will look for the unexpected places God is at work in the world. Amen.

Advent Practices

Pay attention to the unexpected places God is at work in the world. When you recognize God stop and give thanks.

Consider the people, places, and stories you are inclined to overlook or dismiss. Sit with these thoughts.

Ask God to help you see beyond what your eyes can see.

Lean into the mystery of what you do not understand. Eat from the living bread.

Rev. Zack Parks, Associate Campus Minister