God Is Truly Present in Our Midst.
Dear Parishioners,
We are few days away from celebrating Christmas. The mystery of incarnation has no comparison. It is a mystery like no other. Before that, Prophet Micah, an eighth century prophet, sets the stage for us so that we can understand this unfolding, marvelous action of God. The prophet singles out the hometown of David, Bethlehem or Ephrathah located in Judah, as the place of hope after speaking against the sins of both Israel and Judah.
It was in Bethlehem that Jesse, David’s father lived, and David and his brothers were (1Sam 17:12). The town was small and otherwise insignificant. Its importance lay in the fact that as David’s home it was the geographical point of origin for the future Messiah. From the least expected place and persons God chose to fulfil his promise.
In the Gospel, Mary and Elizabeth, the least expected persons, became the center point of this divine drama. Mary’s visit to Elizabeth seems to suggest the meeting of the covenants. From their offspring came Jesus and John. They proclaim the end of an epoch and the beginning of the last era of the world. God not only knew what he wanted, he also knew what he was doing.
He was making it clear that He alone knew what he was doing. He was making it clear that He alone was God. He did not have to rely on mighty armies to conquer evil in the world. He did not have to appeal to philosophical wisdom for the spread of his truth. He did not have to rely on any human government to bring about justice and peace.
God made His saving power present in a Jewish infant, Jesus Christ- an act which appears to be folly in the eyes of the wise of the world. He chose to pour out that salvation upon mankind through the blood of Christ poured out on the cross. An act which seems to be weakness in the eyes of the powerful of this world. God did what He did as a sign that we attain salvation, not by our own human efforts, but by His free gift in Jesus Christ. (cf. Charles E. Miller, C.M)
The whole history of the human race is turned upside down by this birth. It is more than an historical anniversary: We are no longer alone. God has entered our world from the least expected place. He will demand we change our outlook on life. He will direct us to Bethlehem, to the manger to find hope and a fresh beginning. He brings peace to us.
Yes, Christmas is a reminder that God is truly present in our midst. He is present in a simple, human way. But we should never allow the simplicity and humanness of Christmas to dull our sense of wonder and awe. As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ our hearts should be filled with wonder and praise. Merry Christmas and A Prosperous New Year to Everyone!
Sincerely Yours in Christ,
Fr. Vitalis Anyanike, Pastor
