Clothesline 280 "Mystery"

This time in our church year is full of mystery, and perhaps we miss some of it because we are so busy with the things of earth. I know sometimes it’s difficult for me to remember the “real reason for the season.” So, what is this mystery?

Mystery. Many years ago, mystery used to remind me of the Lone Ranger. (I think we can all remember back that far!) He was the masked man who always came to the rescue, but no one really knew his identity. Until one day, an announcement was made that he was going to remove his mask on a particular program. The day came and he reached behind his head, untying his mask. But just as the mask came off, he turned his back to the camera! We were left with no more information than we had before; the Lone Ranger was still a mystery. Well, unlike the Lone Ranger, we know the one who holds mystery in His hands. We are blessed to bask in the awe and wonder of One whose identity we know to be the Word made flesh, our Redeemer, the Son of God, Jesus the Christ.

In less than two months, we will move on to the second part of the glorious mysteries of our God as we move into the season of Lent. But our Christmas mysteries aren’t quite over. Remember the kings from the Orient who follow a star that leads them directly to the place of Jesus’ birth? They traveled on camels for hundreds and hundreds of miles and the star leads them directly to Jesus! Another mystery. And when the kings get ready to return home, they are warned in a dream not to report their discovery to Herod because Herod wants to kill this new, potential “King.” Still, even without the report of Jesus’ birth, Herod responds by ordering all baby boys under two years of age to be killed! But among God’s mysteries…yet again…he warms Joseph, in a dream, of Herod’s plan, and God leads them into Egypt where they are safe. Eventually, after Herod’s death, they return to Nazareth and Jesus grows into the world that he will eventually die in order to save it. Can we even comprehend such love? Can we ever understand the many mysteries, orchestrated by a God who loves us unconditionally?

As the Christmas story comes to a close and a new year begins, think on these things. Remember how blessed you are that this tiny child came to earth to save you for eternity. Ponder the mysteries of our faith, and contemplate the wonder and mystery of God’s power and might. What wondrous love is this…