The Feast of the Nativity of Jesus Christ

When you hear the word ‘Christmas’ what comes to your mind?  Do you remember tinsel, baubles, gift wrapped packages, adorned trees, coloured lights, Christmas cribs,  carols and seasonal music?

The focus for Christmas liturgical celebrations is the reality that “today is born our Saviour, Christ the Lord”.   This is what millions of Christians around the world will be celebrating at this time ~ the birth of Jesus Christ, the One sent by God to live among us.  Though born just over two thousand years ago we still rejoice that Jesus, the Divine Son of God, actually took on the humble garb of humanity.  Yes, the extraordinary message is that God has come to us as one of us, living our sorrows and embracing our uncertainties.

Whatever the personal burdens or the  busyness of external gatherings of family and friends during these days, we have every reason to feel a deep JOY and an inner PEACE that our God has been so true to the promises made so long ago. Although he did not live to see it, the prophet Isaiah proclaimed to the war-weary people of Israel that one day a child would be born who would bring light to the people who had walked in darkness for so long. His coming would bring abundant joy  and lift the yoke from their burdened shoulders.  “The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this!”

This Prince of Peace brought light to the world and hope to the weary. His title of Emmanuel – ‘God with us’ - draws us into the mystery of God’s closeness to humanity ....God has come to us as one of us ...   Luke’s Gospel is at pains to remind us that the “infant,  wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger” is no less than the saviour, Christ the Lord, whose birth is good news and great joy for all the people.  This is the One whom I can approach with total trust and confidence.  Our Saviour, Christ the Lord, is the true source of my joy and peace. 

We see many signs of darkness in our world, many people who seem to live in despair not hope. Perhaps it is the time to ask myself - am I walking in darkness, am I blind to my own selfishness and the goodness in other people?  Can I radiate a quiet, peaceful joy that brings life or hope to those I’m with?

 Let us sing in our hearts, with gratitude to our loving God who is truly Emmanuel :       

Today is born our Saviour, Christ the Lord.

Denise Sullivan OP