At the risk of sounding insufferably pious, I find it difficult to imagine what non-Christian households celebrate at Christmas; difficult, because I was blessed to grow up in a Christian home where we were never in any doubt as to what Christmas was all about.
So what is it that the rest of the population celebrate at this time of year?
No doubt, like me, you`ve heard it said, (even in church circles) “Well, it`s all about the children, isn`t it?” I`ve never understood that to be honest. Why is it “all about the children”? Why, on a day which is not their birthday, do people find it necessary to lavish their children with presents which they can ill afford and which land them in debt for the next twelve months? Why are children indulged to such an extent that they have no compunction in demanding gifts which are expensive and extravagant? Is all this an acceptable and ethical expression of love?
You may also have heard it said, “Well, it’s a time for family.” And so, at extended family gatherings, inordinate amounts of money are spent on food and drink, either prepared and consumed at home or at a pub or restaurant. Often, as the wine or beer is flowing, inhibitions are loosened, along with tongues and so things are said which lead to rows and uneasy Christmas truces are broken almost as soon as they have been called. Does any of this strengthen the love of family members, one for another?
And of course, the entire season is dominated by rampant consumerism with shops beginning to stock Christmas items earlier and earlier every year. The supermarkets and online retailers might love it, but in the words of Tina Turner, “What`s love got to do with it?”
Today`s Life-Light topic, is “Love” – from a ‘topical’ aspect. No easy challenge and so despite the somewhat negative tone of my reflection so far, I am called to point us to the Love which is at the heart of Christmas. I`ve already indicated what that love is not; it is not about indulgence or even over-indulgence.
I grew up with a hymn that begins, “Years I spent in vanity and pride”, which includes the stanza:
“Oh, the love that drew salvation`s plan!
Oh, the love that brought it down to Man!”
We`re talking here about a love which we barely grasp, something which begins in the heart of God the Father and finds expression in what theologians describe as “kenosis,” Christ`s self-emptying, (Philippians 2 vs.7) in the Incarnation. That in itself is cause for celebration, but the verse concludes:
“Oh, the mighty gulf that God did span at Calvary.”
Thank God, salvation`s plan doesn`t end at Bethlehem. The Incarnation leads to the Crucifixion but also to the Resurrection. The Babe of Bethlehem is the King of Kings, whose kingdom we strive to build here and now but whose completion we await with joy and hope.
Have a happy and blessed Christmas Eve!
Alan Kennedy
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