"Though and infant now we view him
He shall fill his fathers throne
gather all the nations to him
Ev’ry knee shall then bow down."
(Angels from the Realms of Glory)
Readings
Exodus 3:1-6
Psalm 19
Luke 2: 8 and 13
Reflection
Angels, From the Realms of Glory” first appeared as a poem in Montgomery's newspaper on December 24th 1816 - the weekly Sheffield Register.
An angel with a powerful transforming message what a role and responsibility that would be. Would you like it? I am not too sure. God’s messenger sent to unsuspecting individuals with life changing news. Would you have got the words wrong? Stuttered? Made excuses? Said “Oh Mary, it will be ok”?
I wonder if Angel Gabriel practiced what to say? I wonder if he tried different beginnings to the message - “Hi Mary” - too informal; “Greetings” - not quite right; “Peace be upon you” - bit religious. How about “don't be afraid”? That seems right given she will be petrified. Well it seemed to work as it worked with the Shepherds too. The angel did well—Mary heard, Mary responded—may we too listen for God’s calling and respond—remember it may come in unexpected ways.
Prayer
Holy God, the angel Gabriel told the Virgin Mary that she was to be the mother of your Son.
Though Mary was afraid,
she responded to your call with joy.
Help us, whom you call to serve you, to share like her in your great work of bringing to our world your love and healing.
We ask this through Jesus Christ,
the light who is coming into the world. Amen.
Further Prayers
We pray for all who receive unexpected and life changing news. News of joy and also that of despair. May Our God bless and direct them.
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