A few years back, I wrote a series on the women of Advent. Over the course of the next two weeks, I want to share their stories again, as a way to encourage our hearts for what the coming of Christ actually means for us and our lives. We are deeply American, and grateful to be, but with this comes the burden of “have to”.  We have to plan, shop, wrap, bake, invite, decorate, create memories to last a lifetime. Sometimes we fail and sometimes we surprise ourselves at what we manage to accomplish. It’s a curse and a blessing, this American Christmas.

But none of it is why Christ entered our world thousands of years ago. These things we “have to” do this time of year, we do for love of country and tradition. But they are not required of our faith. Allow that to place in proper perspective the lingering to-do list resting on your counter.

The advent of God…his arrival, appearance, materialization…to us in human form, interrupted lives, it did not compliment them. He did not fit in to schedules and family planning, nor adjust to cultural or religious norms. He brazenly adjourned the daily activities of these dear women, and altered the course of human history through their faith-filled willingness to trust in what they could not logically explain. Namely, him.

It wasn’t easy for them. They weren’t believed, they weren’t safe, they were often lonely and somewhat misfits in the world of what women do to prove their worth. They had to let that go to prepare for Christ’s arrival. For months if not years. Let go. Of best laid plans, of understanding, of accomplishment.

In exchange, they got him. His being, his light, his favor. Think about that. God’s favor. More than approval it meant they had his assistance, his backing, his support. Isn’t that what every American woman’s heart is longing for right about now? It’s there, in their stories. Which is why they bear repeating.

Elizabeth … Mary … Anna

Though none of us have waited past menopause to become pregnant with our firstborn, nor been assigned the virgin birth, nor spent 60 years in the temple praying, we’ve been extended the invitation to trust nonetheless. Here, in America, in the 21st century.

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…

How will our lives be interrupted? How will our faith supersede our circumstance? How will the unpleasant accepting of what we thought our lives would be, pressed up against what is, give us greater anticipation for the coming Christ?

He is called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

What’s not to look forward to?  Emmanuel, God with us, is coming.