Saturday, December 15, 2007

The JOY of CHRISTMAS

A Story:
A husband was waiting for his wife at the airport. When the wife arrived, she immediately ran toward her husband and showered him with her kiss. The wife noticed her husband was indifferent to her. She asked him, "Why are you not excited to see me? I can sense you are not happy." Still there was no reaction from the husband. Then the wife told her husband while pointing her finger to a couple's direction, "See! Why can't you be like that guy who was smiling at his wife? They probably miss each other that is why the woman is crying while giving a hug to her man. I can sense the joy in the heart of that guy." Her husband finally replied, "You know dear, the reason why that guy is happy while I am not, look at where he is standing. I am standing here at the arrival area while that guy is standing at the departure area!"

A Reflection:
Friends, tonight is the first night of our Simbang Gabi. Are you happy/joyful tonight?
People whom I notice enjoying their lives are busy preparing for Christmas. They arrange their Christmas trees, decorate their houses with lights and lanterns, buy gifts for their friends and loved ones, sending greeting cards and text messages, and are excited to celebrate the holy day with their family and special someone. Even the children are happy/enjoying their lives these days. They look forward to receive gifts from their parents and godparents. Some children are waiting for santa Claus to visit them and give them gifts. Indeed, this Christmas season is the season of joy.

But what should be really the real cause of our rejoicing during this season? Is it because of the gifts? Parties? Food? Etc? Or is it because of Christ? I hope people will not forget that it is the birthday of Jesus that we are celebrating this Christmas. It is Jesus who brings us real joy during this season. We have to ask what are the "joys" Jesus has given us. For some, there is reconciliation, for others they have the opportunity to confess their sins. In our church, we give gifts for the poor but we see to it that they are not only after the gifts but also to thank Jesus because there are people who are sharing their blessings to them. There is also a Christmas Party and we do not sing "My Way" here but "God will Make A Way" in order to mark this ocsasion that it is for Christ and not just a human affair. If there is a reason to rejoice and enjoy the spirit of the season, it is because we can reflect on how Jesus has given us many blessings and gifts in life.

No comments: