Christmas Weekday
(I John 4:11-18; Mark 6:45-52)
With most people having stored away their Nativity scenes, the
meaning of Christmas fades from memory.
Surely the feast is meant to do more than stimulate the economy! No, first and foremost, Christmas reminds the
world that God has come into its midst. This
truth is amply demonstrated in the gospel reading today.
Jesus is capable of walking on water because he is God come
to earth. The boat being tossed about by
the waves symbolizes the Church in a sinful world. The winds churning up the waters represent
human passions threatening goodness and truth.
But Jesus’ presence saves the boat from these implacable forces.
Pleasure, power, prestige, even deep pockets lose their sway
when we keep in mind that Jesus accompanies us. The celebration of Christmas assures us that God
has made His appearance among us. Now we
are to take notice that although the accoutrements of Christmas are gone, His
presence remains forever.
