Christmas, the celebration of the Incarnation of Christ, God-in-the flesh, is the most joyous and hope-filled news. God is with us! He is not distant from our pain, suffering, difficulties, disappointments, and fears. He has entered into our existence to bring redemption, forgiveness, healing, and peace.
However, we must be attentive, for, like the residents of Bethlehem, we too can easily miss His presence. Our God often does His greatest works silently, quietly, and so we have to be willing to look closely, to tear off the wrapping paper, so to speak, of these many moments in time that make up our lives. God is present underneath, waiting to be discovered, even in the darkest night of what seems incomprehensible.
May Christ shine His light in our hearts so that we might see clearly, recognizing His presence in our lives, and His face in the many faces we encounter each day. May this Christmas season be an occasion to recognize our blessings, and to receive the Lord well, so as to give Him to others in our words, deeds, and actions.
On behalf of St. Augustine Parish, Fr. John, all of the parishioners, and I, we wish you a Blessed Christmas, and hearts filled with Christ’s peace for the New Year to come.
