Advent Reflections 1

This is the first of a series of brief reflections as we prepare to celebrate the incarnation of Jesus and look forward to God's return at some time.

Tonight the churches in the Belmont Council of churches came together for a service in Knock Methodist. Revd Robin Waugh gave two short reflections. He reminded the congregation that Christmas is all about communication - God communicating with us and Us communicating that message with the world.

One story which he told, and I had heard way back in the distance past but which was really good to be reminded of:

Soren Kierkegaard, a Danish theologian, tells the story of a prince who was running

an errand for his father one day in the local village. As he did so, he passed through a very

poor section of the town. Looking through the window of his carriage, he saw a beautiful

young peasant girl walking along the street. He could not get her off his heart.

He continued to come to the town, day after day, just to see her and to feel as though he was near her. His heart yearned for her, but there was a problem. How could he develop a relationship with her? He could order her to marry him. It was in his power to do so. But he wanted this girl to love him from the heart, willingly. He could put on his royal garments and impress her with his regal entourage, and drive up to her front door with soldiers and a carriage drawn by six horses. But if he did this he would never be certain that the girl loved him or was simply overwhelmed with his power, position and wealth. The prince came up with another solution.

As you may have guessed, he gave up his kingly robe and symbols of power and privilege.

He moved into the village dressed only as a peasant. He lived among the people, shared their

interests and concerns, and talked their language. In time, the young peasant girl grew to

know him, and then to love him.

As we look towards the incarnation this year this seems to be a good place to start.