December 8, 2024
To thousands, Christmas does not mean a mass for Christ, just as Saturday does not mean a day to worship Saturn, and as Thursday does not mean a day dedicated to the war god, Thor. To thousands, Christmas means only a time for families and good friends to get together, to exchange gifts, and to relax.
All Christians rejoice that the great Father planned that Mary, sitting on a donkey’s back, riding toward Bethlehem, had, in her womb, God in the flesh, being protected by a water bag. This was the super-miracle, for lying in a feeding trough was the creator of the universe (Jn. 1:3), one who would become a brother (Rm. 8:29), a friend (Jn. 15:14), the sin-bearer (2 Cor. 5:21), and the redeemer (1 Pt. 1:18-19).
On any day at any season of the year it is edifying to sing songs about the birth of the Anointed One, the Christ-child. Songs about the birth of the Babe of Bethlehem continue to make millions happy and draw them closer to one another and to the One who came to live among humans and who wants to take them to heaven.
G.K. Wallace (GOSPEL ADVOCATE, 12-15-1966) asked “What shall we do this Christmas?” He gives 12 answers:
- Seek out a forgotten friend and write a love letter.
- Dismiss suspicion and learn to trust.
- Share a treasure and give a soft answer.
- Manifest loyalty in word, in deed, and encourage youth.
- Find time to do what needs to be done and keep our promises.
- Forgive an enemy and forgo a grudge.
- Listen, understand, and apologize, if you are wrong.
- Be gentle, be kind, and so act as to deserve confidence.
- Learn to laugh and take up arms against malice.
- Do not become complacent. Express your gratitude.
- Gladden the heart of a child, welcome a stranger, and take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth.
- Speak your love. Speak it again. Speak it still once again and our Holiday will be a happy day.
~ Kevin Cleary