The way of Jesus

While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
~ Luke 2:6 -7

It's a much colder and rainy day here along the Gulf this morning.  The sound of water pouring from downspouts and a mourning dove somewhere in the tree next door reminds me that mornings like these don't happen very often.  I could easily have surrendered my day to another hour of rest, but time has forced it's hand, and I can't gamble with traffic and road conditions, so I must get going.

I took a moment while on the patio, taking in all of these things, when I suddenly had the thought that this is why God entered the womb of a young Hebrew girl.  That mornings like these remind me that God's divine presence can be found in humbling ways.  I realize that somewhere in the world, maybe even down the street, there are still those people who see this as "just another day," busy planning meetings, striving to crash through some new glass ceiling, and perhaps, get that promotion.  But then there is God, in the simple droplets of rain that have gathered on the leaf that will soon fade and become a memory.

I am reminded that this is the way of Jesus.  Through simple appearances, powerless, and sometimes hidden away.  I am reminded that that within winter, there is the promise of spring.  Within the smallness of a barn, where straw from summer grasses lay, new life would emerge, that would still have implications today.

Entering into communion with Jesus will always lead us to unexpected places.  In humbleness and simple moments, Jesus overwhelms us, and he is known.  It's mornings like these that I am reminded that he is also called, "Emmanuel," God with us.

Stay in God's grip!

G. Todd Williams (c) 2019