Biblical Hermeneutics

Biblical hermeneutics is the art of interpreting the written texts of our ancient, inspired writings. And, as we sit in the warm glow of our Christmas tree, it’s important to enter, interpret and seriously apply our nativity texts.

The Magi came from the East is an interesting affirmation of current practice for Christians in North Wiltshire. At this time of year Cabot Circus and Cribbs Causeway are traditionally being approached from the east and, extraordinarily, just as the star slowed and stopped over Bethlehem, we slow and stop as we approach the junctions with the M32 or the M5. Mmmmm. It makes you think doesn’t it?

Suddenly there was with the Angel a multitude clearly refers to the sudden and shocking appearance of many things from absolutely nowhere; such as when a messenger brings items of online (celestial?) shopping mysteriously to your front door. Where do these things come from? How do they know we’re here? How do they know exactly the wrong size for each item of clothing?

And the shepherds were abiding in the fields watching is clearly a reference to the isolated men simply sitting and watching, clutching a strong black coffee, waiting for that moment when they can return with their flock from the fields of customer browsing.

Obviously, what I’ve presented to you is an expert’s view. Alternative positions on these texts might imply that the Angels point us to the divinity of Jesus, the Magi call us to lay down our lives in worship of Jesus, and the Shepherds challenge us to share with others the good news of Jesus. You’ll have to make up your own mind and react accordingly.

In the mean time, many thanks from Marilyn and myself for all your lovely cards and presents; they’re greatly appreciated. And sincere love and peace from all the members of the leadership at the Abbey to our brothers and sisters with whom we serve. It’s a joy to work with you as we proclaim the one born in Bethlehem across the communities of North Wiltshire. Happy Christmas.

The Malmesbury Nativity

Clergy get Ministry Development Reviews, known as MDR, or KGB. It’s to check that since a bishop laid his (not for long) hands on you all those years ago that there is still some direction in your life, that you are still growing, and you still have a passion for God. Not an entirely bad thing really, and my MDR recently revealed that in the midst of budgets, buildings and baptisms that, as a creatively wired person, I should intentionally make time for creativity in my job. At about the same time we were looking to redevelop our annual junior church nativity, make our crib services more genuinely all-age and bring some of the energy and creativity of Riding Lights to the end product. The result of this serendipity is The Malmesbury Nativity.

For four days just before Christmas we will be turning the central aisle of the Abbey into Malmesbury High Street where Aldhelm, William and Eilmer will cross the boundaries of time and join forces with Hannah Twynnoy (with no tiger) to tell the story of the birth of Christ to Aldhelm’s reluctant audience – the people of Malmesbury. Some of your questions answered:

Can an adult enjoy this? Absolutely. The Malmesbury Nativity is designed to be more adult friendly than usual and not just a young family show. It lasts about an hour and will be performed by four young actors from Wiltshire currently studying drama and theatre at university level – no longer will you have the vicar in a white sheet and tinsel. Costumes are currently being made, the lighting is coming from a foreign land (Cardiff) and the musicians are reworking eight or nine Christmas Carols with the influence of Mumford and Sons.

Can a little child still enjoy this? Absolutely, again. Under an hour, short scenes, lots of humour and energy, great music, and the opportunity to dress up as an angel, a shepherd or a magi and get onto the stage for the final tableau. What’s more, the abbey café will be open for cakes and hot chocolate which seem to have a magical effect on most young people.

Did you really shoot the Little Donkey? I shouldn’t have said that, no we didn’t, honest; although we did have a vet or two in our congregation volunteer to help. However the Little Donkey song is staying in its stable this year for a rest.

Can I get a ticket still? Yes, but make haste to Bethlehem as they are going fast. Tickets are free for under-18s and £2 for adults to cover costs. The Christmas Eve performances are nearly sold out but we are releasing 75 standing tickets this weekend for the Christmas Eve shows. And if you’re planning to come to church on Sunday 23^rd at 4pm you’ll need a ticket!

Yes, but is this actually about the birth of Jesus at all or just a bit of fun? Well, both we hope, but we’ve entrusted writing the pivotal scenes 4-7 to two writers called Luke and Matthew. We hope they deliver.