Today’s scripture: Luke 2:6-7 (NRSV)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Rev. Tammy Mills):
This is my most recent favorite scripture. I love it because it has really driven home to me that the place you are in life when you read a scripture really has a lot — I mean a lot — to do with how you interpret the scripture.
For years I had read this passage and never really given it much thought. Mary had Jesus and life went on. But wow! This year I am reading this scripture entirely differently — because everything in my life was different when I read it.
Just days before, my partner had given birth to our “first born son.” I laughed out loud when I read that — the first thought I had was “these verses are absolute proof the Bible was written by men!” All I could see from my current context was how ludicrous this description was. It paints such a serene and beautiful picture of the birthing process. Mary couldn’t have simply realized it was time and then in two short verses have given birth, especially without the benefit of an epidural!
After going through the birthing process with my partner, I can tell you that “the time” doesn’t just come and the baby doesn’t just magically enter the world! There is pushing and prodding, gnashing of teeth, wailing and tears and joy that is indescribable.
This year as I gaze at my first born son I can imagine Mary and Joseph as real people. They had to have been exhausted after the birth of Jesus. If they were at all like my partner and me, they were exhausted and exhilarated at the same time! As they looked at Jesus I am sure they thought about the dreams they had for his life. I am sure they wondered about how they would afford this new little one.
I am so glad this scripture reminds me that the context of my life is everything when I approach a scripture. That reminder has made me want to look at other scriptures and see what new meanings I might get from them, given where my life is today.
Thought for the day: God, what new things do you have for me, given where I am today?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.