The Holy Spirit’s role in Christ’s conception is indecent. Or, rather, if it is to be anything other than a divine rape, then it needs to be reclaimed in this mode. Because really, our modern paradigms of consent simply cannot deal with a power differential this immense. How could Mary possibly feel free to say ‘no’ to a Holy Spirit who descends as fire, who sets free tongues, and who would kill you if you held a little back for yourself. Her ‘yes’ needs not just to accept the possibility of her own undoing, but to desire it. Giving herself to God requires giving herself completely, even –
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