Sunday, 20th December 2020. (4º T A B)
Luke 1, 26-38:
No doubt this year Christmas is going to be something different. The circumstances of the pandemic impose some restrictions on us. But, in spite of everything, we try to make them as familiar as possible.
As in any family, as I make use of these days to prepare for the holidays that are approaching, I have seen, as in previous years, the hustle and bustle that takes place in all shopping centres. It seems that the crowds do not affect us too much. Ornaments, gifts, delicacies… We like everything to be detailed, that nothing is missing. It seems that the success and happiness of this holiday depends on this preparation. The family reunion must be the best of the year, despite the limitations and even though all those with whom we would like to celebrate cannot be there.
And I would like that, in the midst of all this hustle and bustle, we do not forget that in this family gathering there is a very special person, who will be present if among the others there is harmony, peace, love.
When we are at the gates of Christmas, Mary, the young Mother, gives us the keys to that fruitful expectation: Do not be afraid… you will conceive in your womb… you will give birth to a son… Listen to the one sent by God, accept his word, accept the message. Let it be done to me according to your word. And God becomes man in it.
In our preparation for Christmas, let us not forget what is fundamental: that our heart be ready to accept, welcome and love the one who becomes present in our lives.
Merry Christmas to all!
Juan Ramón Gómez, cmf