Fall on Your Knees
Our Advent reflection appropriately concludes with focusing on the birthday boy, Jesus.
Like Mary in my last reflection, there is so much to say about the love of God and how God chose to become one of us.
What I would like to invite you to consider is the presence of the miraculous- not just over 2,000 years ago, but today, in your very midst.
In the familiar Christmas hymn, “Holy Night,” we hear the powerful command, “Fall on your knees.”
Can you fall to your knees in awe and gratitude for all that is, was, and will be?
Can you look at others as you do before a newborn baby?
Can you marvel at the miracle before you?
Especially in the stranger, the one who shares different views than you, the one you cannot fully understand or appreciate?
Can you reflect on your life and count your blessings?
From the ability to breathe to the warmth of your home, can you not take for granted the multitude of gifts and instead be overwhelmed by it all.
Christmas is a potential moment for transformation. The path to this rebirth is gratitude.
Falling to your knees, both literally and symbolically, is an opportunity to pause and dwell in divine love.
So, this Christmas, take some time and fall to your knees in a prayer of reflection and gratitude. Fill your heart with this gift and be amazed at the beauty before you and within you.
Recommendation- A How To!
Dedicate 15-20 minutes this time of prayerful reflection.
Set before you an image of the Nativity scene, be it your own mini-scene that is in your home, or “google image” one on your computer or phone.
Create a serene space by dimming the lights and shutting off the television.
Sit in a comfortable position.
Play your favorite version of O Holy Night (I prefer the versions of Celine Dion and Jennifer Nettles). Listen attentively to the words as you focus on deep breaths.
When you breathe in, intentionally breathe in peace.
When you breathe out, intentionally breathe out stress.
Following the song, bring your gifts before Jesus. In the spirit of gratitude, identify all the gifts that God has blessed you with in this precious life of yours.
Then, be silent. Allow God to speak to you.
When your mind drifts, return your eyes and heart to the baby in the manger.
Before you end this time of prayer, fall to your knees, either literally or symbolically, and thank God for this time together.
Return to the business of this season, but trust you are different- grounded in the blessings of life.
It is now your turn to shine this divine light for others.
