Message from Archpriest

A Christmas message

The blessings of Christmas are tied to our response to the Christ Child born in Betlehem more than 2000 years ago. When we read the Christmas story from the Bible, there are at least three ways which we can respond to Him.

1. One response was given by the innkeeper when Mary and Joseph wanted to find a room where the child could be born. The innkeeper was not hostile; he was not opposed to them, but his inn was crowded; his hands were full; his mind was preoccupied.

This is the answer that millions are giving today. Like the Betlehem innkeeper, they cannot find room for Christ. All the accommodations in their hearts are already taken up by other crowding interests. Their response is not defiance. It is the preoccupation and the feeling of being able to get on reasonably well without Christianity.

2. Another response was given by King Herod. His answer was one of hostility. In his raging jealousy when Herod heard that a king had been born, he said: “Destroy Him! Let Him die while He is still in the cradle.” This answer grew and swelled until one day it became a mad terrifying roar: “Away with Him, away with Him, crucify Him.”

In many parts of the world, this cry is still being shouted. The world is in opposition to the Messiah. If He would remain a gentle and mild Jesus that would be all right; there is no danger there. If he remained a mystical dreamer, or if we could put Him up in a stained glass window and he would never come down to trouble us, then that would be all right. But a reigning Christ, a life-changing Christ – that is unacceptable to millions of people. That would be a menace to their way of life. It strikes at the roots of their liberty.

3. But another response was totally different. It came from an old priest in the temple by the name of Simeon. He took the child Jesus in his arms and said: “My eyes have seen your salvation.” Simeon’s answer was the response of commitment. This is the response I pray you will make. Have you committed your life to Jesus Christ? If you have not, I ask you to do it right now!

Wishing you a blessed Christmas and a happy New Year 2010.

Mgr. Carmelo Refalo
Apostolic Protonotary

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