Seeker

I took down the Christmas tree and other decorations today. The crib scene will remain for the first few days of the Epiphany season which began today, the Feast of the Epiphany. The wise men have been travelling across our mantelpiece through the 12 days of Christmas. They are made of olive wood, so not nearly as colourful as the ones in this fascinating image. Early this morning they arrived to join assorted animals, Mary, Joseph and the Christ child in the centre.  The story of the magi (or wise men) is told in Matthew 2: 1 -12 . These mysterious strangers presented expensive gifts to the infant Jesus of gold, frankincense and myrrh, offerings rich in symbolism relating to Jesus' identity and significance.  In his poem 'The Offering' Jeremy Taylor (1613 - 1667) reflects on the wise men's gifts and on what he might offer to Jesus: They gave to thee   Myrrh, frankincense and gold   But, Lord, with what shall we   Present ourselves before thy m...

Lord Jesus Christ, your birth at Bethlehem draws us to kneel in wonder at heaven touching earth: accept our heartfelt praise as we worship you, our Saviour and our God. a Christmas season prayer from Common Worship Daily Prayer Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons

The house is clean (ish), the tree decorated, presents wrapped, food stocks ready for the family who will arrive over the next 3 days. Advent is almost over. Christmas is nearly here, the great celebration of 'God with us', 'Emmanuel'. If you have been busy preparing, why not take 3 - 4 minutes to be still, rest, watch a flickering candle and listen to this beautiful  version of 'O Come, O Come Emmanuel'. For another version of this last of the 'O Antiphons' for use in the 8 days before Christmas Eve see my post last year here .