View From the Legislature

Growing up in a home that practiced the Christian faith, Christmas was naturally a very special time of year. Together with experiencing the faith traditions of church Christmas programs complete with inspiring manger scenes, there were the other traditions of lights and presents. All and all, it isn’t hard to understand why Christmas is among the favorite times of the year for many, including myself. It brings with it not only tradition, but a sense of peace and joy.

And while these Christmas traditions and celebrations are wonderful, I was reminded this week while listening to a church service about Christmas, that the story of Joseph and Mary and the birth of Jesus Christ is really the story of challenge and hardship that ultimately leads to hope. It is about a young mother, pregnant out of wedlock who must travel a long way in difficult conditions. And when arriving at her destination, this young expectant mother could find no one to offer her a room in their home or other lodging, meaning that she was left to sleep and ultimately give birth in a stable.

While it is perhaps natural to downplay these hardships because of the everlasting impact of the birth of Jesus Christ, they provide an important lesson about the message of Christmas. Because while today’s celebrations usually focus on the joy and peace of the season, the first Christmas had a lot more trial and challenges. But in those challenges, and through them, emerged a hope that has stayed in the world ever since.

Why is it important to consider Christmas through this lens as well? Because even while many of us are enjoying a Christmas filled with that joy and celebration, many are not. For many around us, they are experiencing loneliness and a sense of hopelessness. Others are experiencing the unimaginable grief of the sudden loss of a family member or loved one at this time of year. In some ways this is a season of extremes, where it can be the happiest time of the year, or the saddest.

Which is why it is important to remember that the Christmas message is one that relates to both. It was an expectant birth that had been waited upon and anticipated for many generations. It drew the attention of wise men and kings. But it was also a time for Joseph and Mary of public scorn, trial, and difficulty. But through all these experiences there was a purpose, a calling and ultimately hope. Christmas can be viewed through both lenses with the same clarity.

It is important to view Christmas as a message for all circumstances. And in it we best honour the message of Christmas by recognizing it as an opportunity to support others in the ways which we can and in the many circumstances of life people are experiencing.