December 24th

Hearing the Story Anew

This week as we attend Christmas Eve services, listen to Christmas music, or read the Christmas story, many of us will hear the familiar words of the birth of Jesus. We will hear about the decree going out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered, a decree that sets in motion the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. We will hear about the birth of a Saviour, a Messiah born in a stable. An angel will announce tidings of great joy, as choirs of angels celebrate the birth in spectacular fashion. With the shepherds we will hear again those words, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace.” (Luke 2:14a)

I am always amazed at how the themes of the Christmas Story echo throughout history. Caesar Augustus was the first Roman emperor, and invoking his name places the story within the backdrop of the greatest human power in the known world. “Augustus” means “exalted one”, and he is known for establishing the “Pax Romana”, a golden age of “peace” brought about by using brutal force to maintain order.

Into this setting is birthed the very presence of God. A king is born in a crowded town with no rooms to be had. The one truly worthy of being exalted is wrapped in bands of cloth and placed in a manger. The birth is announced not in castles or temples or market centres but in the outskirts to groups of young, marginalized people working the night shift.

We live in a time when the wielding of power has become more overt, and divisive. Names are sought, influencers elevated, legacies pursued. Violence and displays of violence are used in the name of security and order. Anxieties build as every decree or posted comment by those with power may have huge implications for the lives of the vulnerable. There are echoes of the words of Jeremiah 8:11, where people say “Peace, peace!” when there is no peace.

Into our setting the message rings out, “Fear not!” Peace comes through the presence of a loving God, the Word made flesh who dwells with us. Peace comes through the vulnerability of God undermining the domination of earthly powers. Peace comes in ways that break down barriers, overcome divisions, and in the end will overcome fear and death itself.

This week as we hear these words once again, may we hear them anew as glad tidings, tidings of great joy for all the people. And with the angels may we give glory to God as we live into God’s promise of peace.