At Christmas, we gaze upon the crib of Bethlehem with reverence and wonder at how the poverty of a little child and the humility of his parents have changed the course of humanity. Such an event, wrapped in simplicity and tenderness, transformed human history, giving it a hopeful meaning.
The child Jesus came for everyone. In Him, God wants to be present in every aspect of our human condition to make it more human and divine. Our God became one of us and, therefore, wants to embrace everyone without exception. That is why we believe that Christmas is a celebration of welcome and inclusion.
Though Christmas is highly commercialized today, for Christians, it remains deeply symbolic of our God joining in our humanity by becoming one of us and assuming our human nature.
These thoughts contrast sharply with what we see around us. We witness war, abuse, marginalization, exclusion, injustice, famine, and more. Yet, we believe that Jesus makes Himself present, identifying Himself with situations of human suffering to console and redeem.
Once again, we are celebrating Christmas amidst endless conflicts where humanity is defeated. The victims are our brothers and sisters whom God loves tenderly. This year, while we celebrate Christmas, conflicts will be raging on in Sudan, Ukraine, Gaza, and Lebanon. One wonders what meaning Christmas holds when life is so hard for so many innocent victims, especially children and women, as is the case in Gaza. They cry out for an end to this senseless warfare.
What hope can Christmas bring to these people? What can we do for them? How can the international community focus its attention on the ignored war in Sudan? When will there be a cessation of the invasion of Ukraine by Russia and a peaceful resolution to the conflict? When will Israel stop its genocide in Gaza and allow for the release of the captives?
During Christmas, people are more attuned to the values of solidarity, generosity, and peace. It is a privileged season of sharing and reaching out to the needy. In the Philippines, people organize outreach activities to help the poor, bringing relief and smiles to their faces.
In this Christmas, let us support each other and be present for our brothers and sisters, especially those who need it most. May the closeness of the infant Jesus strengthen our hope, faith, and love to bear witness to Him.