Redeeming The Time

Look to the services of the church to understand theology and the feasts of the church year. Many celebrate the Nativity of the Savior, but do not know exactly what its purpose was, and what it accomplished. We look at two hymns from the pre-festal services, which describe not only what happened, but also challenges us to tell (by our actions) what we are going to do about it. “Once Mary, being with child by a seedless conception, was registered in Bethlehem with the aged Joseph as being of the seed of David. The time came for the birth, and there was no room in the inn; but the cave proved a delightful palace for the Queen. Christ is born to raise the image that fell of old. (Troparion of the Eve of the Feast of the Nativity of the Lord, in Tone IV) “What shall we offer Thee, O Christ, for Thou hast appeared on earth as a man for our sake? For every creature made by Thee doth offer Thee thanksgiving: the angels, a hymn; the heavens, a star; the Magi, gifts; the shepherds, their wonder; the earth, a cave;