Posted by John Kuhn Bleimaier on December 24, 2014, 12:14 am
The first snow flakes have already sugar coated the ancient cedar tree windbreak at Falkenhorst. The fireplace has been pressed into service to dispel the chill in the old farmhouse. But it is the spirit of friendship which brings with it the most genuine sense of warmth. Thus, allow me to wish you all the best for a merry Christmas and a wondrous new year.
Ah, the original Christmas story: a cold winter night; an expectant mother far from home; no vacancy at the inn; the birth of a child in a stable; the adoration of simple shepherds; and the arrival of wise men on the scene following a celestial sign. This familiar scenario is so touching and powerful that we can easily forget to contemplate the deeper meaning of our universal holiday. “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” John 1:14. Christmas signifies the arrival of a new understanding of life; the promulgation of a doctrine of faith, hope and charity; the recognition of fundamental truths pertaining to love, freedom and spiritual equality; the availability of salvation by grace; the abrogation of failed notions of reprisal and vengeance. These are revolutionary concepts, indeed.
My calendar will soon flip over to 2015 AD (“Anno Domini” = the year of our Lord). Some folks like to refer to it as the year 2015 CE (of the “Common Era”). In so doing people, nevertheless, unconsciously pay homage to that mighty Teacher who set the thinking of all peoples in a new direction. Regardless of Jesus Christ’s spiritual and theological significance, his philosophical and political importance is a “common” heritage of all humanity. Thus, I like to suggest that if our secular society is willing to commemorate the birthdays of Christopher Columbus or George Washington, celebrating the birthday of Jesus is a no-brainer.
I am looking forward to our next meeting (perhaps at LVSC on the 30th!). Have a wonderful Christmas and accept my very best wishes for the New Year!