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I spent the second week of Advent on a silent retreat in Chiangmai contemplating the mystery of God
In the poem below, I’ve tried to imagine how Christmas might have been different, if Mary had chosen to see God’s messenger one way rather than another.
Mary? Mary?
When the Angel Gabriel comes to ask What does Mary say?
Alone in the old man’s house Keeping company with the sawdust Dreading the dusk
A girl in her situation Odds are infinity to none God’s messenger might come calling
She takes what she’s offered – The city slicker gilded and groomed – The glitter of the next town – The thirty pieces of silver She lets him have his way Come what may …
Odds are infinity to none a girl might find herself in such a situation God’s messenger waiting
She says yes to what’s given – The Holy Spirit in all his glory – The Messiah baby in the manger – Her beloved Son hung up upon the tree His Will be done Come what may …
For better or worse
Damnation or salvation
Her answer’s given
Her choice is made
Come what may …