This is a special edition of Rupert’s Land News. In this issue, people from across the Diocese have submitted their Bethlehem Moments. As we enter the seasons of Advent and await the coming of Christ, we once again listen to and learn from the story of the Nativity — the first of many times the world encountered Jesus and was forever changed by His presence. Hearing the story of the Nativity again gives us the opportunity to reflect on the moments when we recognized the presence of God in our own lives — our Bethlehem Moments.
For some, when they think of a Bethlehem Moment, they think of the grandly miraculous — a moment which defies our expectations of what “should” happen. It could be a saved life, a healing, or an unexpected feast. For others, when they think of a Bethlehem Moment, they think of the subtleties that, for some inexplicable reason, stand out. It could be a seemingly random visit to a church, a flower in a garden, or a moment of silence. God’s presence is palpable in these moments, too. All of these are our encounters with God, our Bethlehem Moments.
As you read through any of these stories, I encourage you to think about the multitude of ways in which God touches our lives. Take a little while to reflect on the moments in your life that stick out to you. Sit with your stories, remember them, and cherish them. These moments were made by our perfect creator just for you. If you are willing, I invite you to share them with others. To truly connect, we must allow ourselves to know and be known. Sometimes, this can be a difficult task, but the reward is worth it.
While opening ourselves up to others can be daunting, we must remember and take comfort in the fact that it is impossible to hide from God. We are known, completely and wholly, by God. In every moment of our lives, through thick and thin, God is with us and He loves us. This is why He is our Emmanuel. With the arrival of Christmas Day, we celebrate Christ’s body — His coming into the world as fully divine, and now, fully human. Together, we live our stories. Together, we welcome our Saviour. Together, we celebrate the Body of Christ as the Body of Christ.
