IN DEFENSE OF COMMON SENSE
By Hetty Gray
# 203
“No better time…”
This day has special meaning to so many people that adding something novel is futile. However, when we take into account the happenings around us — both internationally and within our own country, there is no better time than now to reflect on what Christmas really means.
Beyond the trees, the gaily-decorated homes, and the retailers who count on shoppers to put their businesses “in the black,” we need to really sit back and think about bigger gifts. These gifts do not come in bright paper. These gifts require no ribbons or tags. These gifts I cite are given freely. We have only to embrace them to receive them. They are without equal and soar above any earthly possessions. They are love and the promise of life eternal.
Tightly knit into love is forgiveness. You see, for most of us, above all other challenges we face truly forgiving others tops the list. Wrongs, however small, gnaw at us and we find it increasingly difficult to come to grips with the fact that others never really live up to our expectations.
So, too, we fail to live up to God’s expectations. Yet, He remains steadfast and “in our corner” no matter what we do, so long as we come to Him and sincerely ask for His forgiveness.
The spirit of Christmas outstrips any other celebration because it has within its fabric the essence of humanity itself and because it inspires us to live better lives. As you gather with your families or friends this Christmas, pause as you say or listen to the prayer given and concentrate on the words.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son…” There is no higher gift. At a time when so many souls yearn for peace… when Satan is busily working among people to convince them that their lives have no meaning, when countless others push forward with hatred to destroy any possible chance of peace… when peace becomes a word only… it is us to each of us to live that peace within our homes, in the workplace, yes and within our churches.
No doubt many homes will see remnants of paper and ribbon and walking will be an obstacle course as adults skirt around toys, but many homes will be void of gifts and countless others will lack the Christmas message.
The very core of the season for us is spreading God’s love to others; and, in many cases, the task proves daunting. We can see how easily hate spreads. Love poses a higher challenge. Embrace it.
As you recount the Christmas story with the simplicity of the stable, the humility of the shepherds, the splendor of the Magi, and the wonder of the star above Bethlehem, do not forget who placed that star in the heavens. Look beyond our world to God. His is the greatest gift and there is no better time than to accept it and use it in our lives.
Merry Christmas!