Solemnity of Christmas
A few nights ago we watched a show on one of the cable
stations that advertised itself as a program that explored the origins of
Christmas. The winter's solstice was mentioned. The origin of Rudolph as an
advertising symbol for Montgomery Ward's was mentioned. The transformation of
St. Nick to Santa Claus was mentioned. And oh yes, 45 minutes into the program
some mention was made of Catholics and a few other main line Protestant
churches having special services on Christmas Day to commemorate the birth of
Christ. It was all very enlightening.
Today's Gospel points to the origin of all
creation--"In the beginning was the Word.." Before anything there was
Christ. The Word is responsible for everything that exist. Nothing exist
without His willing it.
It is fitting that the season of Christmas is over for those
who don't acknowledge Christ and that it is just beginning for those who do.
Because when all the gifts that we exchange have rotted and even when this
mortal flesh that we hold on to has wasted away in some far off grave--Christ
will remain. Hopefully the Word will call us forth on that distant day because
of what we celebrate on this day..."the Word became Flesh and pitched His
tent in our midst."
Merry Christmas!
