For those who have visited the birthplace of Jesus in the town of Bethlehem near the city of Jerusalem, the word “Humble” may not be an apt description of this cramped cave where Mary, Jesus and Joseph spent the first day of the Son of God’s human birthday. In fact, it reminds me of the many homeless encamped under the freeways with very little protection in what I term as “Squalor.” And yet this is where our salvation begins in earthly terms with a forced move for a worldly census of the Roman Empire.
What makes Christmas meaningful is how we address the importance of its long lasting effects on all created by God. Do we adhere to the capitalistic idea of making it memorable by our shopping habits between Halloween and Christmas in regards to gift buying for others to bring good cheer? Do we focus on it as a time to be with family physically at least between Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, as well as attending Church services and making our annual donations?
If we follow the advice of our readings and Gospel from today, we realize it is a great reminder that we are to be present to all, relatives, friends, co-workers, fellow worshippers and strangers, no matter who they are. If we are not, how do we bring peace, joy, hope and love that the birth of Jesus represents?
In St. Luke’s Gospel today, only the angels and shepherds honor the meaning of this birth which brings a Savior, Christ the Lord, who brings “peace to those on whom His favor rests.” It is a call for us who espouse discipleship through initiation and practicing of our faith to also acknowledge who Jesus is in our thoughts, words and deeds. In doing so, the eternal life we seek by God’s promise becomes a reality for us and to all whom we are present.
Our four weeks of Advent hopefully prepared for us to be proactive by transforming our lives by avoiding sin, keeping peace, being involved in social justice, healing hurts, becoming whole and practicing holiness through a sacramental way of life. If we are doing this we can rejoice in a birth to save us all.
Beginning with His public ministry, Jesus was available every day and all day to those in need. As He was dying on the cross, He forgave the repentant thief and asked His Father to forgive all who took part in His death because He loved all He created. He was present to all for their opportunity of eternal salvation.
As disciples, we are to follow in His footsteps by offering love, mercy and forgiveness as did He.
It is this realistic aspect of Christmas that brings into perspective how the meaning of Jesus’ birth, though so important to God and all who await His coming, was amidst the aspects of the world’s timeframe of what is happening. It was a birth of a baby, despite that this Child is the Salvation of the world for all those who believe in God and His love for us; nothing more, nothing less.
Reading 1: Isaiah 9:1-6
Reading 2: Titus 2:11-14
Gospel: Luke 2: 1-14
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