Christmas 2022: Happy Birthday Jesus

12-25-2022Weekly ReflectionFr. Bing Colasito

Happy Birthday, Jesus. You came just on time. You are the eternal word: The Incarnate Word - you came on time. To be seen, touched, heard, and to engage our senses, to be like us in all things but sin. What a privilege we have to be in your company. From now on, we should never feel that we walk alone; because you are with us. You are the “Emmanuel” God with Us. In a very intimate way, in a very mysterious way, Lord, but in a way that we could understand.

Every year we make our Christmas like no other. Last year, still, there was a lot of uncertainty. People still could not make sense of the pandemic - by all indications - God had a message. How did we respond to His message?

At first, Mary could not understand the message of the angel Gabriel. The thought of becoming a mother without having any relationship with a man; seems absurd. It did not make sense at all! But she listened, trusted, and obeyed. If only we are as docile and patient as Mama Mary. In times of hardships and trials, focus on what we are going to do - not going through. Ask not: Why, Lord? But: Where to Lord?

Today, the decoration of the church is festive, the red poinsettia is all over, and the Christmas banners are up. In the Nativity scene (Belen), Baby Jesus holds the center of attention. The advent wreath, which symbolizes the weeks of waiting - is gone because the wait is all over. The three candles of the wreath of peace, hope, and joy; lead us to LOVE. God’s way of LOVE is difficult to understand, but then we remember the roads to love are narrow, winding, and sometimes steep; all lead to beautiful destinations, so LOVE ON. God so loved the world that He gave us His only Son. That is what Christmas is all about. Happy Birthday, Jesus!

The birth of the Son of God on Christmas Day is the GREATEST STORY ever told. Let us tell the story again and again. But let us always tell the complete story; the best way to tell the story is to live the story. This Christmas, let us become living and walking Christmas people, the whole season or better - the year - round. Let us make Christmas beautiful and meaningful for us and others also.

This Christmas will be like no other; if we allow Baby Jesus to have a place in our hearts. Lord, Christmas is different every year, but your LOVE remains the same as ever - and forever. A BLESSED and JOYFUL CHRISTMAS!