Blog

_{This painting in located in the Chapel of St. Columba.}

“Do not be afraid, for see, I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people.” - Luke 2:10 (NRSVue)

In the cold night of empire, when decrees moved people like pieces on a map, Mary and Joseph arrive. They are exhausted. There is no room at the inn, a story all too familiar for the poor and displaced. Yet in the smallest of spaces, joy is born.

This is joy as resistance: the holy defiance of love choosing to dwell among the lowly. Mary’s labor is God’s revolution. Her “yes” brings forth a joy no empire can steal or suppress.

At the Cathedral, we hear again the song that astounded the shepherds in the field: Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace. Like Mary, we hold this wonder close. We dare to believe that tenderness can still transform the world, that love can still be born among us.

On this holy night, the promise comes near. Vulnerable and tender. A baby! Joy breaks into the world. The radiant light that darkness cannot overcome. Like Mary, we receive this wondrous promise with awe.

The Reverend Canon Steven Lee
Vicar