God’s Declaration: Joining Us in Our Chaos | Advent Series

'Stories and Other Things Holy' Episode 7:

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An Advent Reflection:
"Enter into our chaos"

Advent feels like being a kid in a candy store—so many images, storylines, layers of theology, histories, and traditions to explore. What’s a little storyteller to do but thank God and enjoy the mystery and joy of this sacred season? Thank you for joining us as we partake in the richness of Advent together!

This week’s story reflects on a provocative truth: God declares His intention to irrevocably join us in our chaos. What a rich and radical notion! But here’s the heart of the matter—it’s one thing for God to declare His intention to be with us in the messiness of life, and it’s another to allow Him to do so. Advent calls us into this treacherous yet sacred adventure: cooperating with a God who is passionate—perhaps even desperate—to be with us.

May our shared Advent journey include the charm of the classic children’s Christmas play: a slightly-too-short Joseph, a malfunctioning rope belt, and a star exclaiming, “My arms can’t take anymore!”But beyond the humor, may this season lead us to risk letting God be with us in our chaos. For this is the essence of Advent—a treacherous adventure!

- Terry Nelson-Johnson

Grace-ercises

1. Invite God into Your Chaos:
   Take time to name the areas of chaos, worry, or uncertainty in your life. Then, imagine God’s presence entering those spaces. What does it feel like to allow Him to be with you there?
2. Trust in God’s Compassion:
   Reflect on a time when you felt deeply comforted or supported, either by God or through someone else. How does this memory invite you to trust in God’s compassionate desire to dwell with you?
3. Risk Cooperation with God:
   Pray for the courage to let God into the messiness of your life, even when it feels overwhelming. Ask, “How can I cooperate with Your presence in my life today?”

May these reflections and prompts deepen your experience of Advent and draw you closer to the God who joyfully declares, “I am with you.”

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