As I paid for my newspaper this morning at a local convenience store, I heard, “Just the coffee, please.” Then another voice chimed in, “That’s okay, I’ve got his coffee.” And then, the voice of the second clerk behind the counter spoke up, “No, honey, someone already paid for you!”
That moment of unexpected and unsolicited generosity was a great way to begin my day, even as an objective third-party observer. I have no doubt that it was an even more memorable moment for everyone directly involved. There was one who received, two who gave or offered to give, and one whose tone of voice revealed how happy she was to announce the good news.
“I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare, not for woe! Plans to give you a future full of hope. When you look for me, you will find me, yes, when you seek me with all your heart.”
(Jeremiah 29: 11, 13, Daytime Prayer December 23)
These days are and will be filled with the sights, sounds, tastes and feel of the season. There will be gifts and music, meals and family stories to share precious memories. There will be celebrations of newborns’ and newly marrieds’ First Christmas. There will be a quiet place or moment where or when we remember the one who is not with us for Christmas for the first time. In all of these circumstances, God invites us to see and to hear the message of glad tidings that touches our joy or our grieving, the wealth or the poverty that affects but should not define our lives. Whether it is an ornament or other seasonal decoration we have placed with care, a favorite song or carol that catches us by surprise on the radio or in church, or even the smell of someone’s recipe that has been handed on to a trusted friend or family member, there is a herald of good news! See and hear...
“A little child is born for us today; little and yet called the Mighty God, Alleluia.”
(Antiphon 3, Christmas Morning Prayer)
As your pastor it gives me great joy to announce to the world the wonder of the faithful and generous witness to Christ that you offer. May your homes, families and friends know the joy and the power of the Gift we receive and celebrate in these days!