“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve,
and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark
10:45
It is very fitting that these animals appear in the nativity
scene, although the Bible doesn’t mention their presence. Cows are a symbol of
fertility, birth, and nurturing; they represent abundance, loving care, and the
potential of new beginnings. Oxen are a symbol of strength, patience, hard work
and sacrifice; they represent those who sacrifice themselves for the greater
good. Together, the strong and patient presence of cattle offer thoughts of new
life and potential, loving devotion, and self-sacrifice as deep themes for
contemplation.
In these troubled times we live in, feelings of hopelessness
and fear can make it tempting to shut ourselves off from it all, and focus on
our own needs. And when we see the world caught up in such turbulent events,
the past can seem safe and comforting. It can be hard to open ourselves up to change,
and to the responsibilities of caring for the world and for all of those around
us. As darkness gathers around us in this bleak mid-winter, the cow and ox represent
the light of life and birth, and remind us of the hope and potential of new
beginnings. They show us the true value and meaning of loving care, and the
strength required to serve others. Their presence helps us see our connections
to each other and to the world around us, and tells the story of love and of hope
and of the power of sacrifice.
Heavenly Father, thank you for bringing us the great light
of your Son to shine as a beacon in the dark. Help us to carry this light of
love and hope in the world, and to truly understand the great potential of
change and new beginnings. We are all your children, and can struggle with the
responsibilities this brings. Help us to accept our roles in your family as
loving stewards to each other and the world around us in the face of our fears,
and give us the strength we need to carry this through. Amen
-Bonnie
Petersen
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