Tune: ES IST EIN ROSE
How should we show the love of God in the best possible way? That’s a question we all ask ourselves regularly. Sometimes it is a philosophical musing; at other times, it is a question we ask when confronted with a situation: “What should I do? What would Jesus have me do?”
In this carol, it is referring to Mary’s willingness in the half-spent night to bear to us a Savior. But every time we cross this line in our Advent singing, I ponder for a moment how I could be more intentional about showing the compassion of Christ appropriately… in a way that is pleasing to God and beneficial to others.
Here is the prayer my wife Carlita prayed at choir rehearsal last night. I think it gets at this same quandary… and gives us some insight into rightly dividing the spirit of Christ during this season:
Dear God, Father of the Infant Jesus: Thank you for loving us so much that you were born to us and among us to save us. In a season that is so full of joy and anticipation, we nevertheless look around and see broken hearts, hunger, hate, violence, need of every kind.
When we encounter a need, help us know how to respond.
When we are prone to a rush to judgment, give us a sense of gentle and compassionate thoughtfulness.
When we are distracted by the world, turn us again towards Bethlehem.
This Christmas season may we want only more of you and not merely “more”.
Shape our worries into prayer.
Mary and Joseph’s journey to the manger was not an easy one – likewise, may we find our way through the holiday throngs and madness to silent adoration at the cradle of our King. Amen.
She has a “way with words,” and her prayer helps me better understand how to show God’s love aright. Hopefully, also with you.
This carol beautifully sung by one of Baylor’s excellent groups
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