Christ is born in Bethlehem

Ish 52:7-10, Heb. 1:1-6, Jn 1:1-18. After four weeks of Advent, we have finally reached this moment of the day of Christmas when we celebrate the birth of the Lord and Saviour of the world, Jesus Christ. Today is indeed a day of great joy that finally after the long wait, the world has finally seen the Saviour, a long awaited moment and a new hope dawning on us. Christmas is not just like any other birthdays and it is not just celebrating any person’s entry into this world, it is the celebration of light coming to dispel the darkness of the world. Today's first reading exhorts us to break into shouts of joy for the fulfilment of the promise of God. Jesus is born for us to redeem us, by embracing our humanity and uniting His humanity to our own. He gave us the sure pathway to redemption and the fullness of forgiveness, mercy and grace in God.

This is the Good News that God has revealed to us as the second reading tells us. Today's Gospel presents us with the incarnation of Christ: "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us." Christmas is therefore, is the celebration of the indwelling of God among men and an invitation to become children of God (Jn 1:12). With His help we can make a new beginning as individuals and family. Let us come to Jesus and make this Christmas truly happy, in our heart. The Child in the manger is speaking to us today: "I was born naked so that you learn to strip yourself of follies." He was born poor, that we may regard Him as the only wealth. Born in a stable, so that we may learn to sanctify every environment. Born to love, so that we may never doubt the love of God. Born at night, so that we may believe that God alone can illumine darkness. The mystery of the birth of Jesus must be shown in our lives.

May the Lord dispel the darkness of our world and may we be inspired by hope as we gaze into that great light and share its peace with others! Amen!! Good morning and Merry Christmas!!!