Advent gives us an opportunity to revisit familiar stories. The familiarity can tempt us to skim over the stories, telling ourselves that we already know the message. It can also invite us to a deeper engagement with the story that gives it a new relevance, allowing it to speak to our changing circumstances in new and fresh ways.
Today I’ve been reflecting on Mary’s encounter with the Angel Gabriel. It’s a beautiful moment of encounter between heaven and earth that’s always summed up for me in the words of Edwin Muir’s poem, “The annunciation”:
“Each reflects the other’s face
Till heaven in hers and earth in his
Shine steady there.”
Yet the beauty and mystery of the encounter do not undermine the challenge. Mary is clearly disturbed by the angel’s words in a way that is completely understandable. The annunciation changes her life in a way beyond imagining. It opens her to a world of uncertainty and vulnerability, taking her life in a completely unexpected direction. The angel’s response offers hope in that uncertainty:
“The Holy Spirit will come upon you… And the power of the Most High will cover you with its shadow…”
His words take me back to the creation, when the Spirit hovered over the chaos to draw out new life. They offer hope and promise in an uncertain and challenging situation. In the chaos of our own challenging times we too need to hear that promise renewed. However chaotic and challenging our lives might be the Holy Spirit will hover over us drawing us into the new life God promises.
Where do you need the presence of the Holy Spirit to overshadow you this Advent?