Dear Parishioners,

Christmas is a season of joy. It is a time when we celebrate most fully the coming of our Lord into the world. Our Lord’s birth truly changes all of human history for the better. However, when we look back on an event knowing how things are going to turn out, we tend to forget the challenges that lead up to it. This is especially true if we have not lived through that event ourselves.

The historical nativity must have been a worrying event for those experiencing it first-hand. Pregnancy can be a cause for worry in the best of circumstances for any mother who cares about her child. But, many factors of Jesus’ birth would make it even more of worrisome. Joseph and Mary had to move in order to complete the census. When they finally make it to Bethlehem they are told to stay with the animals in the manger. This worry is compounded by the high rate of infant mortality in the ancient world and that Joseph knew he was not Jesus’ father. Soon after His birth, they would have to flee again from King Herod who wanted to put the Christ child to death. I think the only way Joseph and Mary could have gotten through this is if they were people of great faith.

Why do we rush past these facts? Sure we all know them. But, we do not dwell on them. Yet, without these circumstances, Christmas is reduced to a sentimentality that has little or nothing to do with Christ. It is no mistake that Christ entered history when He did or lived the kind of life that He did. His acceptance of poverty was a sign of His descent from heaven. His rejection from the inn foreshadowed His rejection by nearly everyone at His death. Anyone who is going through a tough time should know that they can turn to Christ because He really has been through it all. That is the real danger of sentimentality: it makes people feel like they cannot be sad during the holidays. It is an unrealistic expectation to be happy all the time. Of course as Christians we should have an inward joy of knowing Our Lord. But the difference between happiness and joy, is that happiness is based on emotion and circumstance. Happiness is always fleeting. Our Lord knew true sadness and He embraces everyone experiencing it.

As we approach Christmas in this final week of Advent, may we remember all those who are less fortunate. Many people need material help this time of year and it is good to support them. But, even more deeply there is a wound in the heart of many that can only be healed by Christ. So, be kind, be open, and be loving. It is by meeting people where they are, in whatever pain they are going through, that we can show them the love that only comes from Christ. In that, we can find true joy.

God bless,

Fr. Carter