The Surprising Presence of Immanuel – An Advent Reflection

December 10, 2014

Today’s church-wide Advent reading came from Luke 1:46-55. Mary’s prayer (the Magnificat) responds to the shocking news of the coming of the Savior. Luke captures the surprising arrival of Immanuel; this Savior comes in the context of humility and mercy. A vast different arrival than what the religious contemporaries of that time imagined. He comes as a child in a manger as opposed to a gaudy coronation of a kingdom.

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Mary’s story mirrors our stories. Immanuel makes His presence known to us in ways that we could never imagine or expect. In many ways Mary’s surprise is our surprise; It’s a miracle that God comes to earth in the first place. Lowly shepherds celebrate His birth. Immanuel is born in minuscule Bethlehem and not the grandeur of Jerusalem or Rome. Luke highlights the humility of Mary, because the people who recognize God’s appearing know who He is and who they are.

Advent invites us to reflect on when Immanuel has appeared in our lives. I was reminded of the past year.  There were times when God surprisingly graced me with His goodness and opportunities I never deserved. Yet, I recognized Him the most during the seasons of difficulties and challenges. The humility God gave Mary is still something He is teaching me.

He appears in the midst of our darkness and disappointments. Often, we notice Him in the quiet and the ordinary. In looking back, He answers our prayers by mercifully redirecting us or even by saying no. We see Him in the minute details of smiles and tears. Even on a day full of snow, the never to be repeated flakes speak of Him.

Luke and Mary teach us about the heart that notices His surprising presence. It’s in this context of humility and mercy; His grace given to us allows us to recognize Him.

Let this Advent remind us the surprising arrival of Immanuel in the Gospels and also how He still surprises us with His presence in our lives.

How have you experienced the surprising presence of Immanuel?

Photo credit to Jessie Schnall, you can see more of her work at Portraits by Jessie.

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I always look at the Magnificat as a song- sung from Mary’s joyous heart. One of the things that jumps out of her words is the matter of her extreme humility and recognition that God is God and she is his servant. Far from the theology some might have if they try to deify Mary. She is most cognizant of her humanity and amazed that God would use her. Her “song” glorifies (shines a Big Spotlight) on God.

Thanks David! It’s a powerful prayer from Mary. She teaches us so much about responding to the work of God in our lives. He gives us far more than we could ever deserve.

Peter, thank you for reminding us, in your poetic manner, that God meets us in the tough places, the surprising places. The artistic rendition of the verse is beautiful. Thanks for sharing the work of artists- art that enhances your comments.

Thanks Kathy! Jessie is fantastic artist.