Readings for Wed Dec 24 and Christmas Vigil
Message from John Paul II Dec 19, 2004
"Next to the crib, as in St. Peter's Square, we find the traditional "Christmas tree". This too is an ancient tradition that exalts the value of life, for in the winter season the evergreen fir becomes a sign of undying life.
Christmas gifts are usually placed on the tree or arranged at its base. The symbol thus also becomes eloquent in a typically Christians sense: it calls to mind the tree of life, a figure of Christ, God' supreme gif to humanity.
The message of the Christmas tree is consequently that life stays "evergreen" if we make a gift of it: not so much of material things, but of life itself: in friendship and sincere affection, in fraternal help and forgiveness, in time shared and reciprocal listening."
As we ponder the christmas tree arrayed in the splendor of light and filled with gifts; as we ponder the manger scene, with Mary and Joseph and the child laying on the hay; may we remember, lest we forget, that the Child born comes to make us friends of God and friends of each other, "I no longer call you servants but friends."
Christmas is about being awaken to our universal call of deep friendship with all in Christ.
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