Fourth Sunday of Advent - B

Year B
2 Sam. 7:1-11, 16
Luke 1:47-55
or
Ps. 89:1-4, 19-26
Romans 16:25-27
Luke 1:26-38

Perplexity can be left alone or challenged. Our confusion points come from inside and out. David and a Temple raises questions from a prophet. Mary and a pregnant question rise to challenge an angel.

David's going ahead meets reversal and he holds back. Mary's holding back meets reversal and she goes ahead. Both are promised good fruit - descendants for ever and for good.

In the midst of a king's word being his bond and a young girl's fear raising deep questions we find prophets and angels - catalysts for reversal and renewal. In the midst of a world not knowing how to back off from misused power and individual fears arrayed against creative peace, we are still in need of prophets and angels.

Priests would urge us to build a bigger box in which to praise and communal mores would belittle the slightest change in acceptable perspective or behavior. Prophets and angels are where the breaks in our power and fear can welcome an outsider (Gentile Alien) without first shunning or reconstructing them.

What will it take for us to listen to the questions, inside and out? Can we hear the Nathan's currently speaking? Can we listen to a Child within?

What will it take for us to speak truth to power and hope to fear?

= = = = = = =

my spirit rejoices
I have been blessed enough
to back down from my word
to forge a new word

blessed enough
mercied enough
steadfastly loved enough

a mysterious revelation
a questing proclamation
release blessing enough
to rejoice my spirit