Joyous Treasures

A precious gift from a friend

A good friend brought this icon back from her trip to Greece. Covered in a multitude of small crystals, the it shimmers in the dimmest light. Only the faces and hands are left uncovered, drawing your attention the the intimacy and humanity of the image. Here, Mary holds her precious child Jesus close to her chest as the deep connection between mother and child is shown. Luke, the Gospel writer tells us that in the midst of the holy birth, "Mary treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart." Mary gives us a precious example to follow in the busyness of our lives. We too, can pause experience the treasures that surround us as we draw near to God. May the joyous treasures of life, love and peace be yours this Christmas season.