Advent Day 5: God’s not Dead 

I’ve hit on this idea of exploring Advent-as-we-go. I’m keen to touch on the gritty reality that lies in the historical context of the birth narrative.

Rather than the New Year, Advent is a better time to “take-stock” of purpose, intention, meaning, and direction. This is because it allows us to reflect on what is in the light of what was, and what can be.

Whilst my words may not be so significant, they are an attempt to reflect on things that are far from insignificant.

This blog is about the theological journey. It is a quest to be part of the dialogue about what it means to have a thinking faith. The kind of faith that seeks balance and understanding, in a world increasingly boxed in by narrow-minded, progressive ideologies. Things that theology, can and must, regard with suspicion; holding itself as a critique of the former, steering clear of syncretism, allegiance and/or surrender.

For those that follow the dust clouds created by the feet of Jesus, this journey can seem like a pointless venture. They would not be wrong; it can be a very difficult journey without ongoing and authentic encouragement.

But.

May they have the strength and wisdom to continue.

May this road be a real journey of discovery, creativity, perseverance, giving and truth-telling. A time when hearts are opened to the Holy Spirit, as they find themselves being found by God. Who entered himself into the midst of human tragedy, sadness, despair, fear, and the constant struggles against nothingness; and the disorder of the world.

Truth telling in the face of direct opposition is an act of love. This true and responsible free speech can be practiced at Christmas time just as any other. It is also a great time to reflect on the movement of God in stories such as that of 19th Century American Writer, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, who out of a place of deep anxiety famously gave to us these words:

‘…then rang the bells more loud and deep…”God is not dead, nor does he sleep”. The wrong shall fail the right prevail, with peace on earth good will to men’