Coleman Long

“Can you fathom the mysteries of God? Can you probe the limits of the Almighty?” – Job 11:7

This may not sound like a devotion that leads to the beautiful expectation and joy that surrounds the birth of Jesus, but stay with the thread to the end.

My recent reflections and contemplations have focused on three aspects of my Christian journey: mystery, chaos, and awe. These things do not sound like soul mates, but I believe that they are.

It is hard to deny the mystery of God, the mystery of creation, the mystery of answered and unanswered prayers, the complete mystery of a creator that seems so present in one moment and seems so absent in others.

We live in a chaotic world that is full of wars, political, cultural, and spiritual divisions, natural disasters, and complexities in every part of our day to day lives that challenge our ability to understand and cope.

We also live in a physical world that is awesome in every way possible – a floating ball of dirt, rock, and water that supports every living thing from plants to animals. It is located just the right amount of distance from the sun that we are not burned up but close enough to enjoy it’s light and warmth. We live with people that often astound us with love and kindness.

Mystery, Chaos, and Awe. Not easy themes to connect together but the Bible tells us they are intimately connected. The story of Job reminds us that we were not present when the foundation of the earth was laid and creation began, so how can we possibly understand the full mystery of God. Genesis reminds us that the spirit of God hovered over the chaos and breathed life and meaning into it. Psalms remind us that awe is our natural reaction to God and to creation.

As we prepare for the celebration of the birth of Jesus, let’s remember that this is the same world that Jesus was born into. Different mysterious gods were worshipped, nations were at war, a frightened king was murdering male children, and Rome was using military force to control their kingdom. And still the angels, shepherds and the Wise Men embraced the Christ child with wonder and awe.

“Dear Lord, thank you for breathing life into the world and for offering us unconditional love. Help us to embrace the mystery of you, the chaos in our lives, and to live a life that is full of love, trust, and awe."

- Coleman Long