In the village Museum, high in the Austrian Alps, I came across this dramatic crib scene. Beautifully modelled, it catches something of the harsh realities of the life of the artisan people of Israel. Not a palace, not “picture-perfect” but featuring houses with cracked walls and very humble status.
When we construct our “model Christmas” we tend to use traditions that neatly fill the gaps in the Bible narrative. So, Wise Magi arrive at almost the same time as the shepherds; the farm animals are neatly trimmed and not smelly. Now, 2000 years after the actual birth of Jesus, we have added robins and snowmen, Santa and Rudolph, and pizza delivery (You know, the carol of Good King W, “deep and crisp and even”).
We have lost the plot.
Advent means the expectant waiting for the Arrival of Jesus- both at Christmas, and at the Second Coming. Ask most people what they are looking forward to at Christmas, and few of the answers will feature good theology! Typically: it’s the “birthday of Baby Jesus” and once all the celebrations are done we can leave Baby Jesus in the box for another year.
No, that’s not good enough. Jesus, Eternal Son of the Father, assumes full human nature, “clothing” Himself in the body of an infant. This baby grows up– we dare not stick Jesus “safely” in a box so we can store Him away!
Jesus, crucified and Risen, has ascended- taking humanity into the Eternal Presence. Glorified, Jesus will return- which means we celebrate the end of this world as we know it… and prepare ourselves for the encounter with the King of Kings who brings the New Heaven and New Earth. Christmas signifies the turning upside down of the whole messy society of civilisations and history.
I’ve never seen that in the John Lewis commercial…
In the dark streets of Bethlehem the everlasting Light has started to shine- and that will not stop UNTIL the King returns.
The cracked facade of the crib is only temporary! THAT is the significance of the Advent scenes and Christmas crib. Don’t you think that sounds rather more enticing than another bellyfull of mince pies and prosecco? Trinkets and turkey for anyone? Or – a life-changing, world-mending celebration of the Gift who is always giving.
The Reflectionary 