On the plains of Bethlehem, the angels brought to the shepherds and us a wonderful message of joy. “Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Christ and Lord.”
The message announced is not from one person to another but from the heavens. The proclamation is meant to be heard by the beggar and the king, the child, the old woman, the poor and the rich. The angels announced to the shepherds that it should be known to all people, in the east and the west, the north and the south. It shall ring forth and make joyful for all ages. It shall never cease, not even when the world shall keep its vigil, and the book of humanity will be closed, and then it will ring on in eternity: “For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord.”
It is a salvation story that started in a lowly stable almost two thousand years ago, with very few witnesses: a lowly but holy Virgin, a modest carpenter, and some unsuspecting shepherds. Creation finally awakened from its slumber when the Light dawned and drowned the darkness of sin. It is a story that still awakens many who, in their darkness, search for peace in their souls only a Savior can bring.
If you recall, it all begins in an out-of-the-way place, in a lean-to fit only for the beasts of the fields. A couple thrown together by God’s providence and their selfless acceptance of God’s grace. The poverty of these two– staggering to our sensibilities, became the fruitful and abundant source of God’s grace that was to be the plan of salvation. We are allured by this mystery, not by anything we can bring, nor gifts we bear or receive, but by the simple fact that we are recipients of God’s gracious will.
Now, we are players in this eternal drama stripped of everything, and it is here in our poverty that we can hear the voice of the angels— “tidings of great joy.” But first, we must empty ourselves of our pride, bluster, and arrogance. God can only be born again in a fleshy vessel devoid of such things.
As willing characters in the story, we are hearkened back to our homes, just as Joseph and Mary journeyed to theirs. We are called back to account for ourselves, to make our presence known. And just as Joseph and Mary ventured out with nothing, we know God most intimately in our emptiness.
The poverty God wishes to be born into has nothing to do with material things, which will ultimately lose their luster only after a short time. God desires to be with us in the poverty of our homes and hearts, where there is no pretense, facade, or hiding. Only here can God lavish us with his graces and love. Poverty, once seen as despicable, is now brought to a level of sanctity.
This is why this day is so special; heaven has been lowered so that we may rise and touch the eternal Word made flesh with all our faults and failures.
“The people who sit in darkness have seen a great light; on those dwelling in a land