Advent with Theotokos, Week 4
A meditation on the Nativity through the Mother of God
Since much of my work this year has centered on motherhood, in both human and divine constructs, it seemed only natural that this Advent I would revisit the age-old Christmas story through the eyes of the mother of God. This is the second of a five-part meditation series you will receive every Sunday of Advent and on Chbyristmas Day.
The historical Church dubbed Mary “Theotokos” or “mother of God” in the year 431 A.D. This Advent, let us fix our gaze on the Holy and Eternal One through the eyes of Theotokos.
A note: to get the maximum benefit from this meditation, save it for a time when you can give it your full attention. Find a peaceful place to sit, have a journal and pen handy, perhaps light a candle, and take an internal posture of prayer, expecting the Spirit to stir something within you that is relevant to your own life. If you would prefer an audio version, just reply to this email and let me know.
Week 4
Her body expanded.
As the weeks and months ticked by
she was stretched,
pulled,
tried.
As the presence of God grew
and grew
within her
she widened,
wobbled,
waddled,
gravity pulling on the weight of glory.
She ached and pained,
shoulders tight, back groaning
sharp pain down her hips,
another woman carrying the globe.
With hope came discomfort.
To bear the promise of new life
she learned to bear the pain of growth.
We, too, feel it:
expansion is uncomfortable.
As God grows in us
the ligaments of our souls are stretched taut.
Things shift within in the day,
restless in the night.
For God to be birthed through us
we must widen.
The mystery of embodiment;
the mystery of faith.
