Archive for December, 2006
Newborn Christ a Reminder of Gifts of Love, Life from God
Sunday, December 17th, 2006
“The Post and Courier”
By the Rev. Jeff Kirby
It’s always amazing what the presence of a child does to the spirits of people. Some of the most hardened and sour-faced of people just awaken, smiling and stooping down, making faces and speaking in baby talk.
The people we would never expect to visibly express themselves surprisingly open the doors of their hearts and personalities to the little one. Perhaps there is something in the vulnerability, safety and unconditional love of a child that provokes and enlivens the spirits of joy and openness in people. They come alive, and it’s truly amazing.
We live in an age of anxiety and uncertainty. The turbulent international scene and the common, everyday struggles that we and our family and friends have with love, forgiveness, finances, work and moral issues sometimes foster in us a sense of inadequacy and fear. Life sometimes can seem like a burden we must carry, and a problem that we must solve.
In this contagious environment of insecurity and awkwardness, however, a child is born to us, and a son is given to us. In this festive Christmas season, Christians recall that God entered the human experience and history. He comes to us as a child so that the barriers around each person’s heart can be softened. God lovingly stoops down to humanity so that each person can feel comfortable in stooping down to his crib. There is no intimidation and no reason for fear. By coming as a child, God gives his confirmation to life and teaches us that life is truly worth living. It is not a problem to be solved, but a mystery to be lived. Life is not a burden, but a gift that we must unwrap daily and experience in all its fullness.
Humanity seems to implicitly recognize this divine affirmation of life. At Christmas, humanity seems to be at its best. In the kindness, love and generosity that we show one another during this holiday season, we truly go the extra mile, and we seem closer to what we can and should be as a people. This is because of a holiday commemorating a child to whom we can stoop and speak in baby talk.
Yes, God has come to us. In the Christ child, humanity has an example of its vocation to holiness and love. Jesus Christ can show humanity the heights to which it can soar if it is responsive to God and willing to embrace each person and seek the good of all.
During this Christmas season, as Christians assemble around the crèche, may all humanity discern the calling and invitation given by Jesus Christ for the tranquility and joy of the world. Let all people of goodwill see the newborn Child wrapped in swaddling clothes and work for authentic peace in their families, workplaces and neighborhoods. Merry Christmas to all, and a Happy New Year!
The Rev. Jeff Kirby is a deacon of the Catholic Diocese of Charleston, studying moral theology in Rome.
Posted in The Post and Courier, Writing | No Comments »