A Litany for Christmas | by Esther Doerksen

Why were you born in the dirt?
So You would know what it means to be human
Why was a manger your throne?
You embraced humility over power
Swaddling cloths were your royal robes
You named our whole being good
Shepherds, sheep, and donkey's announced your birth
You are Emmanuel, God with us
--
You put on our fleshy humanity
So every part of human experience would be yours
You were born in poverty with no titles or status
So all people would have a place of belonging
You moved into our homes
To live with us in our everyday lives
So we wait in expectant hope
For Emmanuel to be born in us
For the seed of David to be rooted in us
So we may grow with life giving love
Open our eyes to the wonder all around us
Breathe in us today
Love is here to stay
--
Amen

Esther Doerksen, hailing from Abbotsford, is currently finishing a Masters degree in theological studies at Regent College. Esther is a writer, social justice advocate, and a sister, daughter, and granddaughter. Esther is part of the Table Vineyard Community.