A different nativity story....

If you have done any work with those living in poverty (whether in Africa, the US, or elsewhere), you may want to take a look at this blog post from United Methodeviations, entitled "Manipunativity," 12/16/12.

Be aware, it is not sugar-coated.  But as we think of the magnitude of the incarnation in different cultures or economic systems....well, read on....

www.doroteos2.wordpress.com/2012/12/16/manipunativity

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.


O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive;
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen