Frackville

If we listen to the Gospel with an open mind, Sunday by Sunday, it frequently gives us a jolt. The values lived and taught by Jesus are a long way from the values of 21st century secular Britain. He was born and grew up with none of our comfort and security. He had no material expectations. While He was still a baby, St. Matthew tells us, He was within a hair’s breadth of being slaughtered by a dissolute and pleasure-crazed king. He and His family became emigrants in Egypt. Life was precarious, and there was no insurance, no health service, no social security. Out of this background emerges the one who will save the world, give it hope again. We look at those small hands and reflect: those hands will one day be pierced by nails. We look at those tiny feet and reflect: those feet will carry the risen Lord out of the tomb. We look at the baby’s face, and reflect: this is the face that one Easter morning will delight Mary Magdalene beyond words, and send her running at top to the city to tell the apostles, “I have seen the Lord!” News of great joy, to be shared by the whole people. A very happy Christmas!