Faith Matters: The Christmas story fills us with hope in the midst of our fear
The God of the universe risked an entrance into the fragility of human life! That is the miracle of Christmas. Born of Mary by the unique and mysterious power of the Holy Spirit, Christ came into the world, as a little, weak, and helpless baby. We Christians find ourselves clinging to this mystery, awed by the wonder of a child who will usher in the salvation of the world. Yet we still wait for its completion, for a time when all the children of God will be rescued from danger.
We who worship this One whom we call “Prince of Peace” have barely lingered under the starts at the stable for a week singing Gloria in excelsis Deo with the angels before our Biblical readings close off all possibilities of “sleeping in heavenly peace.” Instead they remind us of the terror of King Herod’s threat to ruin the lives of all young boys. Mary and Joseph do what all loyal and loving parents hope to do – they protect their child, at all costs. They leave their own country, and become refugees in Egypt, until it is safe to return home.
The tragic irony of a powerful king being so threatened by toddlers that he orders their death is sometimes lost on those who have heard the story many times. King Herod’s fear and lying are evident early in his correspondence with the magi who are following a star to Bethlehem. Had Herod heard rumors of Mary’s subversive song? She announced that the powerful are being brought down from their thrones and the rich sent away empty. The narrative only tells us of the king’s encounter with the wise men who are looking for newborn who will be the promised “King of the Jews.”
The Christmas story includes this juxtaposition of joy and fear in many people – in in the Holy Family and in the visiting shepherds and wise men. To this day, humanity lives with the same tension of joy and fear.
We still endure the danger of those whose power is unchecked, those who would separate parents from children or make the lives of others unbearable. We people who believe in the joy of Christmas still live with many fears for the safety and peace of our families and friends. We know the presence of God with us – Immanuel – and that brings comfort and joy, but we still suffer grief.
It is softened but never removed by the songs of angels. The Christmas story fills us with hope in the midst of our fear. We are reassured to know that Mary and Joseph understand us. We find comfort knowing that Jesus, this wonderful child, has walked this lonesome valley. Knowing we have companions in the journey, we are buoyed to hear the message of the angels, “Do not fear, for I bring you good news of great joy! To you is born this day in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord!”
The Rev. Elizabeth M. Deibert is pastor of Peace Presbyterian Church in Lakewood Ranch. You can reach her at edeibert@peacepcusa.com or 941-753-7778. Faith Matters is written by local clergy members.
This story was originally published December 27, 2019 at 5:00 AM with the headline "Faith Matters: The Christmas story fills us with hope in the midst of our fear."