Advent Reflection: Dec. 19, 2017

Seasonal Devotions

Scripture: Luke 1:1–15  (Today’s Readings)

Ah, Luke, the Beloved Physician. My colleague, of a sort. Luke was converted, and traveled with Paul, documenting what he saw, and going back to interview the eyewitnesses for his report.

But why? Were these things not already known and spoken among those who had seen and lived with our Lord? Of course they were. But experience of the Almighty may not be enough for our logical minds. Unfortunately, spiritual experience may give way to a need for explanation.

How often has my faith failed me, that I must look for explanation rather than resting in my experience of the Lord? How often have I decided that I must be logical, and look for details, when the entirety of creation cries out that God is with us? How often have I missed the miracle of the Incarnation, preferring instead its details?

Such are our minds. But in His providence, God has seen fit to give us both. Cling to the Word, all of it. Let its majesty fulfill your faith. And, if necessary, let its proofs satisfy your intellect.

Prayer: Our Heavenly Father, in Your wisdom You have granted to us what we need: proof of Your presence, proof of Your providence, proof of Your love. By Your grace, grant to us a faith that demands no proof, and a peace that allows us to rest in Your love. In this season, You came to us and were with us. And You are with us still today.  Amen.

Contributed by Richard L. McGough III, MD, Elder

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Artwork: Detail of No Between © Jan L. Richardson. janrichardson.com. Inspired by Isaiah 64:1: “O that You would tear open the heavens and come down … .”