Last week I was given a great task, to pick up my son-in-law from the Denver airport. On December 18th, 2020, he graduated with high honors from his training for the United States Navy. At first, I questioned why I had to do this, because my schedule is full these days, and I still have so much to complete by the end of the year. Yet, I also knew, if I wanted to carve the four hours out of my normalcy, I could.
I have a tendency sometimes to grumble under my breath when I am asked to do tasks outside of my regular routine. A comportment I struggle to break. I thought of this and replied that I could accomplish the task for my daughter who was working, and other family members, whose schedules are not as flexible as mine.
I drove up to arrivals and my very tall “son” stood there waiting for me. He’d changed into his military uniform after exiting the airplane, and I was so proud of his accomplishments. It also hit me that as a pacifist, a core element of my faith, I must also maneuver through this aspect of my life and a “son” who is now a member of the arm forces.
Conversations on the drive to Colorado Springs were filled with laughter, hope, and love. In all these, there were directions, always leading to Jesus. On the side of the country road, people were starting to line up to watch the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn. In this most amazing time, I thought of the Three Wise Men, who understood their directives and instead of waiting to see the star, followed it to meet the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, the sweet baby Jesus. Everything that happened prior to Jesus’ birth, highlighted something new to come of God Himself!
Right then, over 2000 years ago, the Magi were on their journey to greet the King, dressed in their most glorious clothing of so many colors, being guided by the light of the star. An entourage of servants, animals, soldiers, and pages accompanying them. Right now, they continue to tell us the importance of this event as they journey in our hearts. The astronomers who were promoted to kings had no issue with worshiping the baby boy, God’s ultimate King.
I place myself in the footsteps of each Magus…Balthasar, Casper, and Melchoir. I think of their obedience to God’s request. The journey was long and probably tiresome. The unseen, the unsure, the reality. Jesus the son of God born on Christmas day. The baby who grew up to be the savior of the world. The man who was obedient, who followed through.
I’m glad I followed through on Monday, to deliver my son-in-law to my daughter and to his family. Virgins of this change, accepting this young boy, now a man. The thankfulness I received from everyone for this simple gesture…a ride from Denver International Airport to Colorado Springs…was one of the most meaningful I have received in this season.
The three kings, Balthasar, Casper, and Melchoir, were my teachers this week. I thank them for their journey…
Merry Christmas!
Charlotte ©
Rev. Charlotte,
Your poignant retelling of risking the weather, your car, other drivers at night, animals crossing the highway, etc. to welcome home your new son-in-law touches me deeply. Through Christ a pacifist and a military person can together “have God on their side.” That sounds like true peace, which passes all understanding!
Indeed Susan!
Going within is almost necessary in every walk of life.
Merry Christmas!
C
Rev Charlotte, I read again your reflection on the Magi’s journey and yours. I’d pondered “promoted to kings.” It’s always been a given that I’m a child of God; and since I first surrendered to living for Him, I realized God’s family is the royal family of all creation. We are promoted any day and every day we choose to be led by Christ’s Spirit!
Not deserving—just because we’re loved.
Your thoughts are aligned with my own, Susan!
Thanks again for sharing!
-C