Universal Application
It is the day before Christmas Eve, the most anticipated day of the Advent Season. If we read the suggested lectionary readings in chronological order, we find a review of the story or God’s plan for us.
In 2 Samuel 11 we learn about God’s promise to David and how it came to be. David feels that now he has a permanent home, he wants to give God a permanent home instead of a tent. He tells Nathan who at first thinks it is a good idea but learns that God does not. God appreciates the intention or gesture. He wants to give David a House. Thus, we learn about God’s Covenant or Promise to David. From the House of David would be God’s son who would be born of woman. David does not completely understand but he believes in God’s promise.
This praise of God’s love is in Psalm 89. Which says that His Love will stand forever as well as the Covenant with David to establish his line and make the throne firm throughout all generations.
In Luke 1: 26-38 we find the story of the angel’s visit to Mary in which Mary is told that she will bear the son of God. Immediately, Mary feels that she is blessed but wonders how since she is a virgin. The angel tells her that the Holy Spirit will cause the conception. She tells Mary that all things are possible with God. She mentions that even Elizabeth is too old to bear children but she is 6 months pregnant as an example. Mary goes to visit Elizabeth.
Luke 1: 46-55 is known as Mary’s Song. Mary was glorified when she was told she would bear God’s Son. She would be God’s humble servant and felt for all generation be blessed. Elizabeth had believed her and that helped in her understanding. Mary also praised God for helping Israel by being merciful to Abraham and his descendants as he promised our ancestors.
Romans 16: 25-27 seems to put the ribbon on the Advent Story. Paul talks to the Romans. He tells them that the Gospel is finally disclosed to ALL PEOPLE, not just to Israel. God is the savior to all people, all generations.
Years ago when I taught English Composition, I would give a specific statement about a certain reading and ask the students to write a composition that showed how the statement could be universally applied. Statement: Over 2000 years ago,
A virgin gave birth to a baby boy in a manager. How does that apply to today? What have we learned?
We have learned that sometimes the “intention” to do something can be as important as the accomplishment. We also learned that the giving reflects the greatness of the giver and not the receiver. God appreciated David’s plan but God’s gift to David showed his greatness. David understood this. The birth of God’s Son applies to all of us even in 2017. Let us see the universal application of a baby born in a manager and feel as blessed as Mary did in her song.
Lord, Hear our Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, help us to always remember that that baby boy dies for all of us as we anticipate the celebration of His birth. Amen
Carolee Brown
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