The Presence of Christ, Turning the World Upside Down

“When King Herod heard this, he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.”

(Mt. 2:3)

Meditation

The Lord has come amongst us. Christ’s coming disturbs the ways of the world. In contrast to so many national leaders, the Lord comes in humility, denouncing the evil of injustice and oppression that accompanies the ambition for power and status. The coming of Jesus calls for a change of heart and a transformation of life so that people will be liberated from all that dehumanizes them and causes them suffering. Jesus shows us that God is with those who suffer because each person has dignity as God’s beloved child. Thus, Jesus’ presence creates disturbance precisely because He rocks the boat of the rich and the powerful who work only for their own interests and neglect the common good. But, for those who work for peace and unity, Christ’s coming brings the light of hope.

Today, we are invited to commit ourselves to the constructive action of making justice a reality in our world. This implies the need to reflect and acknowledge the instances when our ways are not God’s ways of justice and peace. When Christians work together for justice and peace, our efforts are more powerful. And when Christians work together in this way, the answer to our prayer for Christian unity is made visible such that others recognize in us Christ’s presence in the world today. Through our words and actions, we can bring the light of hope to so many who are still living in the darkness of political unrest, social poverty, and structural discrimination. The Good News is that God is faithful, and He is always the one strengthening us and protecting us from harm, and inspiring us to work for the good of others, especially those living in the darkness of suffering, hatred, violence, and pain.

Prayer

O Lord, You have guided us out of darkness to Jesus.

You have illumined the star of hope in our lives. Help us be united in our commitment to bring about your Reign of love, justice, and peace and be the light of hope to all those living in the darkness of despair and disillusionment.

Take our hand, Lord, so we can see You in our daily lives. As we follow You, remove our fear and anxiety. Shine Your light upon us and set our hearts on fire so that Your love surrounds us with warmth.

Lift us up to You, who have emptied yourself for our sake, so that our lives may glorify You--Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.