As we conclude Advent and begin our celebration of the birthday of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, I am reminded of a statement by George Bernanos, a noted French author. He wrote, “The Church has need not of reformers but of saints.” Christmas reminds me of the wisdom of those words.
After all, does not our Lord make clear in the Sermon on the Mount that we are called to perfection (cf. Matthew 5:48). Here, at Christmas, the Eternal Word of God takes flesh in the womb of the Virgin Mary and is born into the world to teach us, by word and example, how we are to live better lives. We are reminded as well that this vocation, this call, is to be saints. Jesus Christ calls us to perfection, not mediocrity. I think this is a major part of the “good news.”
At Christmas the Gospel speaks of the “good news of great joy” proclaimed first to the shepherds. What is this good news that moves the shepherds to go in haste to Bethlehem? It is not the promise of material possessions. Nor is it a summons to embrace a cause. These are things that would attract a “reformer,” to use the reference of Bernanos. A “reformer” needs a cause and often seeks a radical societal change. These changes might be praiseworthy, although often reformers bring about changes that even they live to regret. But the “good news of great joy”—what is it?
The shepherds find a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes, surrounded by animals in a manger, with a joyful mother looking on, and a thoughtful Joseph standing watch. The angel had made the following proclamation to them: “For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord” (Luke 2:11). The “good news” is that a “savior” is born, who is both “Messiah and Lord.” Implied in this proclamation is the profound message of salvation, redemption from sin, reconciliation with God, future hope, and peace on earth.
Each time I look at a Manger scene or Christmas Creche, I am reminded of the call from God to do better, to live a good life, to reject sin, to move closer in relationship with Him. When I reflect on the Nativity in Bethlehem, I want to hear that “good news” proclaimed to me once again, the “good news of great joy” heard by the shepherds, about a “Messiah and Lord” who was born not in a palace but in a manger. Here is a “Messiah and Lord” who was first and foremost obedient to the Father’s Will. That obedience can bring about a change in my own life.
There are many lessons to be learned from Christmas. One of the greatest is that “all things are possible for God,” even His birth to a Virgin Mother in a manger of Bethlehem. What wondrous accomplishments came forth from the humble beginnings in Bethlehem. What marvels await us who follow His example of humility and submission to the Father’s Will, the striving for holiness, the pursuit of a saintly life. There is always a greater good. We can always strive to do better.
I extend to you and your families my blessings for a truly joyful and peaceful Christmas!
