“And though no man knew it, the hour was near which was to end and to fulfill all things; and though no man heard it, there was one far-off cry in an unknown tongue upon the heaving wilderness of the mountains. The shepherds had found their Shepherd.” – G.K. Chesterton (“The Everlasting Man”)
Archaeologists have long searched for evidence of a missing link that would join modern man to the primates from the world in which he lives. By the study of unearthed remains of early cavemen there is hope that one day the link that would bridge the elusive, if existing, gap will be discovered. But the missing link has already emerged. He was a caveman too. Because he was not born on the earth, but beneath it. Although, a caveman, He did not come to link men with beasts, but to link men with God. Men and women should not dwell on that which is beneath them, but that which is above them. For it has been revealed to men and women that they possess such a capability. A capability to be a sons and daughters of God.
“The Thief Who Understood Value”
I was disappointed to find that the life-size Nativity was not on display in our town green this year. A town parks and recreation representative informed me that the display organizers had arranged to have it moved to a church near the park. Reason being, that the baby Jesus which had been taken from the display, but returned in recent years, was not returned last year.
The thief must have been a good thief. Because only a good thief would know the greatest value of something. That is why he or she chose to take the central figure of the display; which so happens to be the central figure of Christmas. The baby Jesus always draws the most attention. Especially the attention of those who need him most.
Two thousand years ago, another thief was not in a park but on a hill. In his darkest moment, he too was drawn to Jesus. And as a good thief, himself, saw great value in the man who hung from the cross next to his. His last act on earth was that of a thief; for he stole heaven.
“The One Awaited”
How strange this night; like no other. With silence and stillness beyond compare. So dense the air of forlornness. Trials of days gone by and trials yet to come, pale in contrast to those that lie within. So heavy the burden of life.
All attention is now given to an unoccupied crib, humble in nature; its purpose yet to unfold. And within its emptiness, so go our hearts. A weary faithful world awaits.
In an instant of time long measured, the veil of obscurity is lifted; revealing the eagerly anticipated visage. For now, in the crib resides all beauty, all purity, all innocence; empowered by divine love.
The radiance of this infant presence instills light in the darkest of human hearts. And in so doing removes the sting from suffering, despair and death. Order is restored, trust renewed and truth has its place.
So, then, to whom may joyous voices freely sing their praise; and homage be paid? Who is this advocate of salvation, peace and good will? It is He, God’s gift of love; in whom all hope is well placed.
A Blessed Christmas to all my followers and those of which who have become valued friends.
CROSSROADS-Right Choices 