It’s no secret that the Intramuralist is a big believer in Christmas. But allow me to briefly share what I am a little more a believer in…
For centuries people were desperately craving, waiting for a king. They were looking for one who could bring justice, freedom and peace — necessities that none of their governments could consistently, adequately provide. Government capability has long been a fascinating topic — what we want, what we look for, what it can and can’t provide.
But lest we digress, I assume in those days they awaited for what we all perceive a king to be — one donning the royal robes, a shiny crown, jewels galore, and just this immediate, majestic presence. And that’s simply not what happened.
Here came a babe, born in a manger, with most likely bleating animals all around. Even his birth announcement was unusually sent out. It went not to the scholars or authorities nor even any church officials. It was sent to ordinary people, the shepherds who were tending their flocks, out under the quiet sky.
But all of a sudden, the silence shattered. Angels appeared; the sky exploded with light! …Don’t be afraid! A Savior is born! Peace on Earth! Glory to God in the highest!
Suffice it to say, the arrival of Jesus was unlike what any likely expected.
No robe. No shine. Not even jewels. But majestic indeed.
I always find it interesting that while Jesus is the central figure of Christianity — none of the other major world religions deny that Jesus is real. Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism and more — they all acknowledge that Jesus physically walked this planet some 2,000 years ago.
Hence, while I’m a big believer in Christmas and celebrating the birth of Jesus this December 25th, I’m a bigger believer in implementing what he taught all 365 days of the year.
Let me first profess that I’m no scholar. And as a follower of Jesus, I am an imperfect one at that. That’s part of what makes this so messy sometimes; we all are imperfect, totally screw up, and sometimes totally do not reflect the character of God accurately nor well. That’s part of what Jesus teaches; even in our imperfection, his love for us is not discounted. So what does Jesus teach?
Let me attempt to take an incomplete stab…
Love God. Love each other. No matter what. Be kind. Be humble. Always. Give thanks. In all things. Forgive. Again. And again. Talk to me. Look in my direction. Look to me for wisdom. Know that on this planet you will never have life all figured out. That’s not anything wrong with you; it’s simply how I set this temporary planet up. I’m teaching you to rely on me. You can. Even with the hard. I want what’s best for you. Remember that. Even when it’s hard to see me. I am there. I absolutely delight in you.
In the coming days, with the glee and the gifts and all the candlelight services, I wish each of you a wonderful Christmas. For those for whom it is especially merry, enjoy. May it be meaningful and full of people and things you love.
For those for whom it is especially hard — for whom it may not be the most wonderful time of the year — let us acknowledge you as well. May Christmas still be meaningful, and more so, may you know that you are absolutely delighted in and loved.
Blessings to each of you, friends… and yes, Merry Christmas! It is a joy and a privilege to do this with you.
AR