In the monthly newsletter for December a priest of the diocese had a meditation on Christmas and those who first met Jesus in the Gospel.The shepherds were the first to encounter our Lord. They were the the 'nobodies' of that society.Their life was not one of hope but pessimism, they saw no way of ridding themselves of their fate. They were led to the stable and meeting Jesus they received great joy and a new life. A new meaning to what they were doing.
"The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone. (Isaiah 9:1)
The second group who met our Lord where the Magi. They were in search of truth, the true light of life. They strived all their life to find it and were left with dryness.They were forever in search. One night they saw something they new was different and they followed it to find Jesus. They had difficulties on the journey in following the star. They went to the King for help, and with the help of the learned of that society they resumed their journey.The Star appeared again and led them to Jesus. With great joy they returned to their homeland.
The journey of the wise men is our journey. Some times we have the sparkle of light in our lives but it disappears.We have doubt and skepticism enter and we hesitate on our way. If we continue with others and make the effort, the star will again appear.
The next to meet our Lord were the two old people in the temple. Simeon and Anna. They were old and their bodies were giving them trouble. They did not have what they wanted they were also searching for the light. Simeon took the child Jesus in his arm: "Now , Master, you can dismiss your servant in peace; you have fulfilled your word. For my eyes have witnessed your saving deed displayed for all the peoples to see..." (Luke 2:29)
The Gospels have many stories of people in darkness meeting our Lord and leaving with great light and happiness. We try to reflect the light that we have received and make it shine on those that we come in contact, bringing joy into their lives, especially those on the fringes. A Blessed and grace filled Christmas.
