These days when there are upheavals and tragic events occurring in many parts of the world, and in the nation, it is difficult to remain hopeful. However, comes Christmas when we celebrate the birth of Jesus. What is striking as we listen to the readings at Christmas is the numerous titles attributed to "Jesus: Emmanuel, God-is-with-us", "Wonder-Counsellor", "Mighty God", "Prince of Peace", "Christ the Lord", "the Word", "the First-born" and others. For our part, as God's people, we too are given titles, such as, "the Holy People", "The Lord's Redeemed", "The-sought-after", and "City-not-forsaken".

All these titles signify the intimate and long lasting relationship that is shared between God and us, His chosen people. It means, in reality, there is no need to despair or feel hopeless in the face of the difficulties around us. For the One who is born on Christmas day, "brings good news, heralds peace, brings happiness, proclaims salvation..."

Therefore, the scripture readings remind us what it means to be a Christian. We too, are called to be born anew and to model our lives on Him who came to bring us fullness of life. Like the many men and women in the Bible, and like Mary and Joseph, who obeyed God and did their part in the fulfillment of God's plan to bring Jesus into the world, we too have to do our part in bringing Jesus to all whom we encounter in our daily lives.