by The Rev. Anne C. Seddon
And the child’s father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to his mother Mary, “This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed – and a sword will pierce your own soul too.” – Luke 2:33-35
When I first held my newborn son, I looked at him with wonder. Gazing down at him in my arms I thought how precious and innocent he was, and I wanted to protect him forever. What would he be like as an adult? What would be his hopes and dreams? Would he be healthy and happy? And I prayed one simple prayer for him: that he grow to be a man who was capable of both giving and receiving love. I suppose most young mothers wonder about these things for their children; I suppose Mary did too on that first Christmas so long ago.
Unlike Mary, however, no one told me eight days after his birth that “a sword will pierce your soul too.” No, Mary’s child, her first born son, was unique. He was the living God, come to dwell with us as a human being, who would experience the same ups and downs of growing up that we do. His adult life would be one of service to all people. He would heal, teach, nourish, forgive and prepare a place for each of us. Ultimately he would be despised and rejected. We may not want to think about it, especially on Christmas Eve, but a cross hangs over the creche. For this Child we celebrate and adore on Christmas would one day be crucified.
This is no ordinary child! He is the living God, the Prince of Peace, King of Kings, Lord of Lords and Love’s pure Light. He is also the Way, the Truth and the Light, the Resurrection, the Bread of Life and the Good Shepherd. And he gave everything, every bit of himself, for us out of pure love. The journey of that extraordinary life began on Christmas — heralded by choirs of angels and celebrated by shepherds; illuminated by a brilliantly shining star that would lead all nations to worship him!
Everything most important about us is revealed by our response to this Child. How do we respond to the light of such love? What do we say when given such a wondrous gift? What does Christmas really mean to us?
Almighty God, you made this holy night shine with the brightness of the true Light. You bestowed on us the gift of unconditional love in the person of your Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ. Grant that here on earth we may walk in the light of Jesus’ presence, love one another as He loved us, and on the last day wake to the brightness of His glory. We pray this through your Son, Jesus, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. AMEN.
Merry Christmas to all and may the peace of the Christ Child and the Risen Lord dwell in your heart today and always!
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