Finding Stillness in the Christmas Rush
By Jim Dunn
On a recent trip to Halifax, I passed the Jesuit Centre of Spirituality which had a sign outside stating “ring doorbell for entry”. Intrigued by the open invitation, I did. When the bell was answered and I was asked what my inquiry was, I replied that I did not know. I was only responding out of curiosity to the very welcoming sign. I was not turned away for lack of reason. Once inside, I was encouraged to visit the chapel and I readily agreed as this building was historic. The architecture and the original wood detail were magnificent. In the midst of this timeless grace and beauty, I felt a quiet peace within me.
During Advent and Christmas, we take time to prepare and ready ourselves for the Prince of Peace. It is sometimes difficult to find the stillness in the midst of the commercial rush. I found it. The stained glass chapel windows depicted sequential scenes reminding me of Mary’s call, her prayerful acceptance, the joy shared with Elizabeth, the long unknown road to Bethlehem and the birth of Jesus. Quietly viewing these artistic moments in our faith history, my path to Christmas became more focused. How often are we called by God, sometimes confused about why we are being summoned? Do we respond or refuse to enter into the mystery for fear of the unknown? Do we feel like we are on a pilgrimage towards something wonderful but the map isn’t clear? Do we discover the eventual hidden joy and share it with others? It is said that we need to find more Bethlehem in our lives. Inquiry and prayer help us to do this. Only then can we stand in Mary’s stable of hope and ponder our direction.
James (Jim) Dunn
Blessed Blending
December, 2015
Jim Dunn is a member of the Office of Formation for Discipleship for the Archdiocese of Toronto. Published by Novalis Direct, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. To subscribe to NOVALIS DIRECT, please go to Novalis Website.