You have shown strength with your arm; you have scattered the proud in their conceit; you have deposed the mighty from their thrones and raised the lowly to high places. – Luke 1:50 (Inclusive Bible)
In 1865, William Chatterton Dix penned a poem that would become the beloved Christmas-time favorite, “What Child Is This?” During Advent, we will dive into this question that is much more complicated than the lilting lullaby tune, “Greensleeves,” conveys. We will see the story of the time leading up to the birth of Christ in its historical trauma-informed fullness. The story of humanity and its recurring themes of oppression and corruption run right through history and into our own narratives. Yet, we can rely on the assurance of the carol to confirm that God is “present with us” in powerful ways that continue to be the Word of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love even and especially in the midst of hard times.