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Christmas Surprise

Submitted on 10th December 2009
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Over many centuries Christians have voiced their surprise, amazement and wonder at what the central event of Christmas: the coming of the creator God as a human child. Here are four of those reflections to help us voice our own surprise at, and gratitude for, the gift which is beyond words.

What kind of greatness can this be
That chose to be made small?
Exchanging untold majesty
For a world so pitiful
That God should come as one of us
I'll never understand
The more I hear the story told
The more amazed I am

Oh what else can I do
But kneel and worship you
And come just as I am
My whole life an offering

- Graham Kendrick

  

The Word is born a child. It is only right that we should be astounded.

- Bernard of Clairvaux

Who would think that what was needed
To transform and save the earth
Might not be a plan or army,
Proud in purpose, proved in worth!

Who would think, despite derision,
That a child should lead the way!
God surprises earth with heaven,
Coming here on Christmas Day.

- John L. Bell & Graham A. Maule
   

What shall I say! And how shall I describe this Birth to you? For this wonder fills me with astonishment. The Ancient of Days has become an infant. He Who sits upon the sublime and heavenly Throne, now lies in a manger. And He Who cannot be touched, Who is simple, without complexity, and incorporeal, now lies subject to the hands of men. He Who has broken the bonds of sinners, is now bound by an infant's bands. But He has decreed that ignominy shall become honor, infamy be clothed with glory, and total humiliation the measure of His Goodness.

– John Chrysostom
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