Christmas in the year of the pandemic bears striking similarities to the first Christmas, 2,000 years ago.
The Holy Family, far from their home and loved ones, made their way to Bethlehem burdened with anxiety and uncertainty. Reaching their destination, they found only a stable as a place to stay. There, among the animals, Mary gave birth to her Son and laid him tenderly in a manger. The only guests to welcome the newborn Child were awe-struck shepherds from the fields. Soon afterwards and at great risk, the young mother then had to carry Jesus into a foreign land, with only faithful Joseph to protect them on their way.
We seldom welcome trials and tribulations. Yet, with insight that can only come from silence and prayer we can see that God allows them for a reason. As difficult as 2020 has been for all of us, we can ponder how our current suffering will bring unexpected blessings.
The pandemic has helped some people refocus on what is truly important in life. Others have come to a renewed understanding of human dignity, as they have witnessed the isolation of so many of our elders, the heroism of health-care workers, the loss of employment experienced by large numbers, and the growing plight of the marginalized.
COVID-19 has restricted many of our cherished religious practices, above all the celebration of Holy Mass, but it has not dulled our faith. It has not compromised our friendship with the Lord. Many have discovered in the “church of the home” a source of unexpected blessings. Charity and compassion have driven creative outreach in sharing the joy of the Gospel. Technological ingenuity has brought us new ways of being connected to one another, even though we yearn for the day when in-person worship will return.
Whatever difficulties this pandemic has brought to you and your loved ones, I encourage you to invite the Holy Family to accompany you in your suffering. Jesus, Mary and Joseph know full well what you’re going through. Hardship and heartache were their lot too on that first Christmas. They want to be with us today, reminding us that the Saviour born that day so long ago is forever Emmanuel, God-with-us.
Christmas in 2020 is being celebrated more simply this year, with no parties, fewer gifts, and livestreamed Masses instead of crowded churches. It takes us to the heart of the great mystery. With his birth by the Virgin Mary, the eternal God consecrated the world and his light will never be extinguished.
My prayer for each of you is that the Light which pierced the darkness of our world in Bethlehem will give you joy and hope this Christmastide and in the coming year, which Pope Francis has proclaimed the Year of St. Joseph. May the Holy Family guide and protect you always!
Sincerely yours in Christ,
+Michael
Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB
