Dear People of God,
Blessed Christmas! And God bless us all, everyone!
Tiny Tim, a disabled child character in Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol spoke these words which were later echoed by Mr. Ebenezer Scrooge, the main character following his conversion from ultra-miser to generous benefactor. A work of fiction no doubt, the story nevertheless carries the message of repentance, hope and endurance in a world that tends to forget the true meaning of Christmas. Indeed, the Nativity of our Lord and the Christmas season that follows it is without a doubt, everyone’s favourite Holy Day and time of the year. It is probably the only religious holiday that is globally celebrated with the common message of peace, goodwill and cheer.
While we know that Christmas’ secular side with its commercial motives are largely responsible for its universal appeal, as Christians, we must strive to detach ourselves, however temporarily, from worldly merry-making and imitate the shepherds by embarking on a spiritual journey to Bethlehem in Judea, seeking the baby wrapped in swaddling cloths. There, in silence and in awe, we join his parents and become part of the Holy Family as behold this child who is the reason for this season of hope, reconciliation and renewal. In the manger – no crib for a bed – lies the helpless babe, the Messiah. Although Son of the Most High God, He represents the helpless and vulnerable of the world around, and will not survive a day if no one cares to see to His needs. The gift of life does not stand on its own; it must be complemented and sustained by the goodwill and moral obligations of all members of the human family.
Back to Dickens’ story, it is revealed to Scrooge that Tiny Tim will die if the boy and his poor family is not assisted. Scrooge wakes up on Christmas morning, a thankful, renewed man. He finally sees the folly of material gain at the expense of family, love and humanity and sets about making amends. Grateful for a second chance to live, he became a second father to Tiny Tim and sees to the boy’s medical treatment.
As we enter into this season of true giving, let us consider where and how we can be generous. Wrapped presents and gifts are nice but can we go deeper and ask ourselves if one can give the following instead:
* Time and presence such as a listening ear to someone in need or make that visit that we keep putting off to a distant relative
* Benefit of the doubt to someone who has crossed or irritated us
* Mercy and compassion to a person in need of our forgiveness
Remember that Christmas is not just one day. Indeed, 25 December starts off the season of Christmastide that will end at the Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord. There is adequate time to give even as we continue to receive from the Lord who comes to give us the ultimate gift of all: His very Life and Self and invites us to do the same!
Blessed Christmas and a very happy new year 2025. And God bless us all, everyone!
Fr. Alvin Ng Sze Syn, SJ