Christmas is a time for us to celebrate; a time for us to gather with family and friends to rejoice the peace and joy of this season. Yet, for many, Christmas is also a time of mixed emotions, as we remember the memories of Christmas past, of loved ones who are no longer with us, of family and friends who are unable to be with us at this special time of the year.
The joy of Christmas began with the simple yes of a young girl named Mary and the faith of a boy named Joseph. Their faith, their willingness to trust and believe set into motion an unbreakable bond between God and humanity. Despite all the chaos and challenges that rage throughout the world, this day marks a change, because God is with us and God’s presence in our lives gives us hope.
We celebrate how an innocent child wrapped in swaddling clothes became a gift we can keep unwrapping, not just today, but for a lifetime. When we let the joy of this season, the incredible love of God made flesh, infuse our lives, we are not only changed, but we also become a gift to one another. When we allow this joy to infuse our lives, we bring hope to this world, we bring healing and peace to the fractures that divide people, bringing God’s love to every corner of this world.
In the famous Christmas account from Luke’s gospel, the angel proclaims, “Do not be afraid; for behold I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people.” With God in our lives, we have nothing to fear. Despite all the uncertainty, the chaos, the questions, the doubts, and the temptations that swirl around us, we have nothing to fear because God is with us through it all. We celebrate because our Emmanuel is with us.
As we put away the Christmas decorations, the gift of Christ’s birth continues each and every day of our lives. God is with us today, tomorrow, and forevermore, no matter where we find ourselves, no matter what is going on in our lives, no matter where we are on our faith journey, God is with us, and we have nothing to fear. Be not afraid, all is well.
My friends, Merry Christmas! May the love of God always dwell within your hearts.