Miracle of Christmas

From the manger to America, a day of renewed hope

It’s Christmas morning in America.

From many families, that means gathering around the tree while children of all ages tore into brightly wrapped packages. The day may include a church service at some point, though many will have given thanks the day or night before. Later there will be Christmas dinner — called that no matter what time it is taken. Turkey or ham, perhaps even goose, with all the trimmings.

Then an evening together, warm and snug inside as the holiday comes to a close.

That’s the ideal. And we wish all could enjoy that ideal.

But the truth is that every year, many of our fellow Americans don’t have much of a Christmas. And this year promises to be no different.

We are, at times, a nation at odds with itself. It often seems differing views of political and social issues have been magnified into near war.

And there is real war as well. In Gaza and Ukraine.

No, things are far from perfect. But there is reason for joy. A reason for this season.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

The first Christmas brought hope to the world. And each year brings a Christmas that renews that hope.

Things will get better. We will get better. Merry Christmas to all.