Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. — Hebrews 12:2
I recently visited the Carmelite Monastery in Kew to thank the nuns who prayed for us in our two trips to the Philippines this year. We had manifold blessings during these trips, but most importantly, the protection of our Lord was foremost. As I sat in one of the pews of the home of these contemplative nuns, founded in Sydney in 1922, I felt so peaceful, able to pray quietly, no one was around – feeling the manifest presence of God and the communion of saints who graced this holy place for many years.
Christmas is a time when some seasons of our life are deeply highlighted. To many it is the holiday that they have been looking forward to for a year – a break from the humdrum of daily grind, especially from work. To others, Christmas is an opportune time for buying, shopping and splurging on some pleasures. To others, Christmas could mean family gatherings, reunions, and happy connections. To those feeling charitable, Christmas is an opportunity to give and share. To those who have lost loved ones, Christmas may no longer be an enjoyable event, as the grief and loss only add angst and pain; if someone is a victim of abuse or oppression, Christmas may not be that palatable, and only intensify their darkness.
Many of us, including myself, find Christmas a challenging time, a season of trying to balance rest and serving. Church ministry is at its height, and unless one goes away intentionally, church events can be hectic. Christmas could easily pass me by without any time for reflection. Just a big sigh!
How do I take a step back and truly appreciate Christmas at my age? At 67, I have gone through different seasons of it—from the selfish little girl who demanded a new dress, new shoes, new toy from my parents, to being a grandmother who can forgo my own wants for the sake of my loved ones. From a self-seeking young adult whose idea of Christmas is one big party, then maturing into a person who can sacrifice the whole season serving the Lord through ministry work.
Still, how can I find the wisdom to find joy in simplicity and centre my celebrations on the birth of Jesus and the sacrifice of Mary and Joseph? How can I embrace the festivities without losing the quietness of prayer and solitude? How can I remember my countless blessings in the gift of family, the loyalty of friends without being run down by the festivities? How can I show compassion, generosity and goodness to others while desiring time for myself? How I can be a sanctuary of peace for Jesus while reaching out to others in their needs as well?
At this time of writing, I continue to work on it – with the demands of work, family, and community, I need to find time for that sacred pilgrimage of my soul. Maybe, I can start by looking at baby Jesus, the main person in the account, the Saviour of the world. If I could look at the crib as the central part of Christmas, instead of the tinsels and wrapped gifts, I can be drawn to the Christ Child in the manger and gaze upon Him, adore and praise Him and bring my songs of thanksgiving. It might take only a few minutes but could be profoundly rewarding!
Someone dropped off a complete set of the Nativity in my pastoral office one day, without a note. It was my first time to have a decent size of this set, now enthroned at home, which I have dreamed of for many years. It has given me an opportunity to gaze at baby Jesus at my chosen time. God is so good; He hears the cry of the poor.
As I look at Him, I can hear the magnificent words of the opening of St John’s Gospel echoing in my heart: ‘In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God’ (John 1:1).
The demanding world of the season melts into a peaceful haven, beyond understanding.
I take this opportunity to wish you all a very blessed Christmas and a safe New Year. May Jesus Christ manifest His loving presence on you as we gaze on Him this Season.
Dina was former editor-in-chief of The Philippine Times and has been its columnist for over 20 years. She has written two books, "Colours of Life" and "Under His Wings".
Dina has been in the helping field for 40 years in the various roles she has fulfilled – teacher, employee in different organisations, volunteer, pastoral care worker. She is a member of Australian Counsellors of Australia (ACA) and Counsellors Victoria (CV).
DINA IS A QUALIFIED COUNSELOR AND PASTORAL CARE WORKER. She can be contacted on 0430 214 917. Email dinadelfino.tlc@gmail.com for comments or feedback on this story).
