by Sr. Sheila Campbell MMM                            Ireland                              25.12.2024

Every time I think of Christmas I think of snow, presents, Christmas trees and all the usual trimmings. Now why is that, when my true understanding of Christmas is more grounded? It is hard to get away from our commercialized Christmas when it is presented to us incessantly on TV and radio and in social media.

This year I want to concentrate on what I know to be true. God who made the world (and the whole universe) came to this little planet to become part of human history. He came as a little baby into a human family, and, from all accounts, not a very rich one. He came when the family was travelling, homeless, without shelter. I think our modern equivalent would be to be born as a migrant living in a tent under some railway bridge.

Facing this reality provokes a deep sense of gratitude. God did not need to assume the human condition at all, but by drawing close to us, God shows us the depths of his love and unending giving nature. I feel so small and unworthy in comparison.

At the heart of this holy season is the incarnation—the miracle of Emmanuel, “God with us.” In Jesus, divinity stepped into humanity. He came not to dwell in palaces but to walk among the lowly, the broken, and the forgotten. His birth reminds us that God’s love is not distant or abstract; it is personal, intimate, and accessible to all.

As I celebrate with my Sisters here in Drogheda, exchanging gifts, sharing meals, and creating memories, I want to pause to reflect on the ultimate gift: Jesus Christ. The lights that hang represent the Light of the World, who dispels darkness and offers hope. The joy I feel is a glimpse of the joy proclaimed to the shepherds on that first Christmas night: “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11).

Yet, Christmas is also a time to ponder what it means to follow Jesus. The humility of his birth challenges me to embrace simplicity and to live with compassion. The generosity of God’s gift calls me to extend kindness and love to others, especially those in need. And the peace proclaimed by the angels invites me to reconciliation and to seek harmony in our world.

As we, as the wider MMM community, celebrate Christmas, may we carry its message beyond the season. Let the hope born in Bethlehem ignite a lasting faith in our hearts. Let the love of Christ inspire us to serve others selflessly. And let the joy of His presence transform our lives, filling us with the assurance that no matter what challenges we face, God is with us.