Catholic Diocese of Broome

“Joy to the world” at Christmas is still a prevailing sentiment that permeates our lives. Such a positive message can be transforming if we let ourselves be open to hear the original story as it was intended with its freshness and promise of hope. Despite every attempt by the commercial world to drain the real significance out of the feast of Christmas the season remains one where people attempt enthusiastically to wish peace and happiness for others. And that, like the birth of our Saviour, is worth remembering.

It has been a harrowing year in so many ways. The stories of war and suffering punctuated our news bulletins regularly and there seemed never to be an end to the special appeals to assist with some catastrophe or relief operation. It has been as though we have been caught up in some perpetual cycle of disaster. The sudden dawning of the realization of climate change, even by those who previously championed the denial of that school of thought, has added to the mix that is our life. On the local scene there have been front-page stories of deprivation and suffering noted in some of our communities. Large Government surpluses have been recorded but the current investment in services, housing and infrastructure has barely dented the on-going demand for assistance that is so evident throughout the Kimberley and other parts of rural Australia. This is the world in which we live and it is where God has placed us.

Jesus was born into a world of suffering too. His very beginning in a stable in Bethlehem was a statement in poverty. Like many struggling in our country today Mary and Joseph didn’t have the luxury of excessive leisure time. Happily they had work to help them to be good providers. Certainly as we survey the scene in the stable it becomes clear that the holy family were battlers in every sense of the word who celebrated the birth of the boy child with enormous joy and flourishing hope.

For all people of faith it is important that we voice clearly our commitment to do whatever we can to alleviate the suffering of others and to remove injustice whenever that is possible. Contemplating the birth of Jesus the Christ, gives us the hope – even in the face of overwhelming odds – that is transforming, that can bring real joy to the world – a world which is largely godless and consequently directionless. Our Christmas liturgies are wonderful opportunities to engender a sense of gratitude to God for the gift of our planet and for all those in it. Our Christmas prayer can animate us to be ever committed to bringing Christ to our world and recognizing what joy there is in deep faith. I wish you and all your family God’s choicest blessings this Christmas. May Christ through you bring true joy to the world God has entrusted to us.