Go Where We Prepare for His Coming
The Census at Bethlehem (1566), Painted by Pieter Bruegel the Elder and Pieter Bruegel the Younger
This painting is based on the passage in Luke 2:1-5, where Joseph is taking Mary and the soon-to-born baby Jesus back to Bethlehem for the census ordered by Caesar Augustus.
Just take a moment and mediate on the painting.
Whose character may you be in the painting? What activity are you engaged in?
Do you see the family of Joseph and Mary riding into town, looking for shelter for the night?
The scenery depicts how all the citizens of the town are engaged in the busyiness of life without realizing that the Holy in their midst. No one even laid an eye on Joseph or Mary, and they never expected baby Jesus be born next to them. They have missed the opporunties to witness what God is doing in this historical moment of human history, where the heaven touched the earth.
In the season of Advent, as everyone is counting down to the days till Christmas, how have we prepare ourselves for His coming? The painting closely resembles the busyness of our preparations for the holidays, as we are busy with winter vacations, organize family gatherings, parties, setting up the Christmas trees and decorations, shopping for the last minute gifts.
Have we forgotten what the real purpose of Christmas is today?
Do we see the presence of God in our midst and how He works in those around us?
Do we see the needy amongst us to offer them comfort and warmth?
How are we preparing ourselves as we wait for the Second Coming of Jesus?
Christmas is a time of joy and celebration.
It may also be a time of deep pain and sadness for people who have lost their loved ones, hurtful experiences and broken relationships.
During this season, let’s go and share a meal with those who may be neglected, marginalized, or alone this time of year and offer our warmest hospitality.
© JOSEPH WONG - THE WAY WE ART