The Invitation of Wonder

 

Wonder.  This word alone is deep and full and leaves me with few words to express what it does inside of us when we step into the space of wonder.

Webster gives us the definition of - a person, thing, or event that causes astonishment and admiration; the feeling of surprise or admiration aroused by something strange, unexpected, or incredible. To be filled with wonder; amazement; marvel. A miraculous thing or act; miracle; to be curious; want to know.

Luke 2:17 - And when they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child.

Mary treasures all she has witnessed and experienced and ponders them in her heart. Luke 2:19

As the angels went away into heaven the shepherds said, "Let us go... and see this thing..." And when they had seen... they made known. Luke 2:15-17

When wonder fills our hearts, there are two responses.  Like the shepherds, we tell others.  Like Mary, we treasure what we have seen in our hearts and ponder, which is to think deeply, to meditate.

Becoming aware of who Jesus is, fills us with wonder if we have the courage to go and the eyes to see Him.

This season - stop, pause to remember why Jesus came; let wonder fill your soul as you step into the presence of Jesus and worship Him; pondering all the ways He has come as you grieve all the ways that look different than you expected.  After all, He was laid in a manger, in a stable.  Really - the King?!?  As you go and see may you then make known what you have seen of the Lord Jesus or like Mary - treasure them deep within your heart.  Really, maybe it's a bit of both.

Don't let what looks so different trip you as it did for so many when He came those many years ago.  He is no longer the baby who came.  He is our King who reigns and comes.  Immanuel - God with us.  And He comes.  Will you have eyes to see Him?

Who is Jesus to you today, in this season?

Oh Lord, I pray for eyes to see you today.  In the dark nights we walk through, may they be split open with this same glorious promise that You come.  I 'run' to see You, cradled in what may seem so insufficient to house the King of kings and Lord of lords.  Yes, Lord, so often You are embodied in ways that we least expect it and so, give us the eyes to see You that we may treasure them and ponder on Your saving grace and goodness.  Give us the courage to speak as the shepherds did so that others may know of Your goodness and saving grace.  And for that we need wisdom; and so today, I pause at Your throne and bow before You, the King of kings and Lord of lords.  Amen.