Very thoughtful and personal reflection from Katherine Greiner, Doctorate Student in Theology at Boston College. Here is an excerpt:
“Their stories remind us that each of us is called in our own unique way to participate in the unfolding of God’s mysterious plan. What makes David and Mary so special is not their superhuman capabilities, but their courageous capacity to participate in God’s creative mission, to make room for God and give space for God’s creative actions to take place. They each lived into their relationships with God, eager to see what God will bring about in their lives. This ability to say yes and then to risk all in order to participate in God’s life reveals their deep trust in God’s love and grace. What both David and Mary show us is the promise that with God’s mercy and love, we are enough. They lived their lives in a posture of trust and love. Perfectionism, on the other hand, indicates a life lived in a posture of fear—not trust.”
The fourth and final candle is lit. The stockings are hung. The trees are up. The planes have landed.
In the words of Joni Mitchell:
They’re cutting down the trees.
They’re putting up reindeer and singing songs of joy and peace.
And I do wish I had a river to skate away on. Personally, it has been a difficult Advent this year. Like many of our Daily Theology contributors as well as many of its faithful readers I am in the middle of The Dissertation. Currently The Dissertation stands as the central symbol of all my personal anxieties and struggles. Working on this seemingly unconquerable tome as brought me into a different kind of Advent experience than I’ve ever had before. It has been more visceral and liminal. And, unfortunately, no amount of Christmas carols, stocking stuffers, or spiked eggnog is going to bring it to…
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Teilhard de Chardin 
Years ago I read a prayer by PTC. It expressed the plea that upon his death he wished the atoms of his body be dissipated throughout the universe. My memory is vague on this but would appreciate any leads in locating this prayer. Thank you so much for this site.
Arthur:
Thank you for your kind words and for your question. I will try to find the quote by Teilhard de Chardin. I may not have time to extensively look until next weekend but your question has intrigued me and I want to find it also. Hope you have a blessed Christmas.
Peace,
W. Ockham