I'm never quite sure what to think when I hear the word "behold." When I read it, I often find myself chuckling. Most of the time, I find it in Biblical texts and as I'm reading through the various verses, I see that word and suddenly imagine some Hebrew superhero flying through the sky and someone yelling "behold!"--sort of an archaic "is it a plan? NO, it's Superman." Other times, I read it as a warning "behold, you better move your lazy ass or it's gonna get run over." And there are more meanings.
Everytime I see the word, it's to get someone's attention. Almost a verbal splash of cold water. Hey, you. Behold. Look here. Now. Pay Attention.
God, through the prophet Isaiah, says "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?" (Isaiah 43.19)
When the angel Gabriel came to Mary in the annunciation texts, we witness "Behold" in a new light--one of grace and hope. That "behold" is beckoning Mary to listen with care, for her life is about to be changed.
How often are we told to "behold," and only respond with a passing glance and a mere 'eh?'
about me
- jon
- Welcome to the Dog Dooner Cafe’. In January of 2006, I began writing this blog as part of a contest for my study abroad program in Copenhagen, Denmark. During the semester that followed, family and friends were able to follow my travels around Denmark and Europe. Over my weeks and months abroad, it became a place to for just that, but also to share insights that the travels brought with them. The name comes from a imaginary place I began telling my parents about when I was 3. As far as I can tell, it was a place where everyone was welcome, where kindred spirits and new friends gathered and loved. The name, then, seemed fitting. Welcome to the Cafe’. Sit down, have some tea, and see what you think.
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