Christ is Born! Glorify Him!

In the First Ode of Matins for the Feast of the Nativity we read, “When the Creator beheld man, whom He had made with His own hands, about to perish, he bowed the heavens and came down…”.

This one simple verse describes the story of what happens today in such simplicity and beauty. It’s the story of love. It’s the love of a parent who can’t bear to see their child suffering and will do anything in his or her power to take away their pain.

Sometimes, amid all the presents and lights and dinners and shopping, this story of love gets forgotten. We indeed celebrate the great gift that was given to us today in the birth of our Savior, but we celebrate so much more. Today, we’re given an example of how we should live our lives. We’re shown the way of love, service, and selflessness that should be the hallmark of all Christians, indeed of every person in the world.

Today, all humanity is given a second chance and we will be accountable for how well we use that chance during our journey here on earth. Now is the time for us to not only graciously accept this gift but to go out and share it with others. In life, there will always be times when we might be hurt or offended by others. There will be those against whom we have held grudges or withheld our love for a host of reasons. Today is the day to give all of them a second chance as well. The greatest gift that we can give this Christmas Day is to be reflections of the loving Father, and show forgiveness, mercy, and love to those around us.

Let us send the message to the world that the spirit, joy and love of Christmas doesn’t just live in us for a day or two, but that it makes a difference in our lives every day of the year. In doing so, we will make every day a gift and a cause for celebration.

May you all be sharers in His love today, and may your hearts rejoice in the great gift that is ours.

With the bestowal of our blessings and prayers for all of you, we remain Sincerely in Christ,