No wind at the window, no knock on the door; no light from the lamp stand, no foot on the floor; no dream born of tiredness, no ghost raised by fear; just an angel and a woman and a voice in her ear.
This hymn is a modern interpretation of the Annunciation, which is a key text for the fourth Sunday in Advent (tomorrow). In its rendering of the familiar tale in which Mary is told of her forthcoming pregnancy and the birth of the Messiah, this song draws out insights that many traditional tellings overlook.
We forget that Mary was a young woman, barely older than a child. We forget that it was a scandalous situation. We forget that Christ’s very presence in the world would bring controversy and strife to some, while at the same time bringing salvation and new life to others. This carol sheds light on all of these facts and more.
In the end, however, the best part of the song is the final line – yet Mary, consenting to what none could guess, replied with conviction, “Tell God I say yes.” The question for us is, how willing will we be when God comes calling in our lives? Even when we do not fully understand or may face controversy for our own decision, just imagine the miracles that may come if we follow Mary’s lead.
Reverse Advent Calendar: See if you can find a food kitchen in your area that serves a meal on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. Christmas morning is especially wonderful because it sets our frame of mind to where it should be when we return to our own family’s celebrations.
Even Before 