by Linda Potter
Stars, birthed in heaven shine in the darkened sky, a path to illuminate. Beaming brilliantly, glittering splendidly, their vastness, incomprehensible. But one stands alone in the midst of many.
Travelers by day, smitten by the sun. Travelers by night, led by One to a Baby swaddled in strips of cloth. Coddled and swaddled the same as other babies yet standing alone in the midst of many.
Luminous on and beyond, the Hosts of Heaven’s harmony proclaimed terra-ward for all to hear. Yet shepherds, but a few, biding the starry night experienced the scenic, divinely orchestrated melody. All the while standing alone in the midst of many.
The stellar vigil marked the land of a battle-weary mother whose heart treasured every detail of the holy birth. It was foretold by a man of many years that this one, full of treasure for the kingdom’s sake, must take a broadsword to the heart. She stood alone in the midst of many.
Bethlehem beckoned Joseph of Davidic heritage to respond to the Roman census. Valor precipitated the great journey as Joseph stood fast to God’s word through a dream. A donkey carts his innocent bride ready to birth their dear son as Joseph, his valiant father, stands alone in the midst of many.
Do we see? We, too, this day are bidden shepherds, directed men of wisdom, birthing mothers and valiant fathers standing alone in the midst of many as we worship heaven’s swaddled conception, Jesus, God’s Son.
Linda Potter 