Christmas is one chapter in an epic

December 24, 2006 -- Fourth Sunday of Advent

By Bishop Robert Morneau

	Bishop Robert Morneau
	Questions for reflection: 1. How would you summarize the Christian story in a paragraph or two? 2. How does the Nativity mystery relate to the other four joyful mysteries? 3. What role do you play in the Christian story of our day?

The Christian story has many chapters, linked together in a marvelous and stunning narrative. As we have been preparing to celebrate the Christmas mystery during this Advent season, we do so in the context of other great mysteries that give meaning to the birth of Christ. Five chapters in our Christian story are what we call the joyful mysteries: The Annunciation, The Visitation, The Nativity of Our Lord, The Presentation, The Finding of Jesus in the Temple. In other words, the birth of the Lord must be seen in what precedes and follows upon His Nativity.

Mary said "yes" when Gabriel approached her with the invitation to become the mother of Jesus. It was the same refrain we hear today in the book of Hebrews: "Behold, I come to do your will." This is the mantra recited by all those who commit their will to God's plan of salvation. Jesus said it as did Mary, John the Baptist, the Twelve, and all the saints down through the ages. To celebrate Christmas well, we too must begin each day with the desire to do God's will.

A d v e n t
• Other Advent articles

Today's Gospel tells of the second joyful mystery. Mary made a dangerous cross country trip to visit her cousin Elizabeth. Two pregnant women rejoice in coming together to share the gift of grace from God; two infants in the womb, infants destined to give their lives in total sacrifice, await the unfolding of salvation. As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, we are invited to carry the Lord who dwells within us to others, be it at home, at work, or wherever our travels may carry us. We are Christ-bearers and through us Christ becomes present to our world.

The Nativity of the Lord changed human history. God-become-man. God breaks into history to assume our human condition and identify with our plight. For those without faith, this is a great scandal. For those with faith, this joyful mystery provides meaning to all of history. And to think that this Child comes from Bethlehem-Ephrathah, such a small clan. To think that in this Child is the ruler and Lord of creation, indeed the very peace of humankind. The mind is too finite to comprehend this wonder; the heart too narrow to appreciate the humility of our God. All we can do is adore, to gaze with love at the infant King of the world.

But this is only part of the story. So much more is to follow: the presentation in the temple, the flight into Egypt, the hidden years in Nazareth, the teaching in the temple, the public ministry, the passion and death, and then, the glory of the resurrection and ascension. Christmas is but one chapter in an epic of immense proportions. Christmas is a moment to nurture our faith and love in a God who withholds nothing from us.

The liturgy offers us this beautiful prayer in helping to celebrate our Christian story: "Father, all-powerful God, your eternal Word took flesh on our earth when the Virgin Mary placed her life at the service of your plan. Lift our minds in watchful hope to hear the voice which announces His glory and open our minds to receive the Spirit, who prepares us for His coming. We ask this through Christ our Lord." (Alternative Opening Prayer)

(Bp. Morneau is the auxiliary bishop of the Green Bay Diocese and pastor of Resurrection Parish in Allouez.)