Scripture Readings: Isaiah 9:1-6; Titus 2:11-14; Luke 2:1-14
“Once again, we come to the Holiday Season, a deeply religious time that each of us observes, in his own way, by going to the mall of his choice.” – Says humorist: Dave Barry.
Obviously, Christmas is not as much about opening our presents as opening our hearts to the greatest gift: Jesus.
Christmas is about God’s love for all people; Christmas is about the Word of God coming to life in Jesus.
Someone shared in recent days, that we need to celebrate Christmas every year, lest we forget our need for God in our lives, lest we forget that God does come into our lives every day – not just at Christmas.
Pope Francis in recent days shared that, “God passes into our lives often, God sends angels to us, yet often we miss the opportunity for grace because we are too preoccupied, immersed in our thoughts, in our affairs and so much more, to realize that Jesus knocks at the door of our heart, asking for welcome.
How do we know Lord wants to come into our lives as a person, family and parish?
When we feel or say to ourselves: I want to be a better person; I am sorry for what I said or did; I want to be closer to others; I want to be closer to God… This is the Lord wanting to come into our lives.
Says Pope Francis, “please do not let the Lord pass by; welcome him into your life. Make room for the Lord in your life every day.”
Deep within everyone is the desire to share gifts with others and whether your shopping is done or you are waiting for the after Christmas sales to buy your gifts, let me end with some Christmas gift suggestions:
- To your enemy – give forgiveness
- To an opponent – give tolerance
- To a friend – give your heart
- To a customer – give service
- To all – give charity
- To every child – give a good example
- To yourself – give respect
May we open the doors of our hearts and lives to Christ, this Christmas and every day of our graced lives!