On our way to Christmas

I wonder if the prophets ever stated, or even wrote, "If I told you once, I told you a thousand times, Repent."  But it had taken the prophets many times, as well as the holy men and women of ancient times to get people to turn their lives around.  And when they did, it seemed to only last for a short duration.  Of course sometimes true transformation occurs after life hits people across the face.  I have known parents, young people, and parents of young people, to approach me many years later, apologizing that they had not listened to words of advice and early warnings.

At this time of year we talk a lot about peace and good will.  People seem to think about children more so during this time of year.  But the challenge is to develop a lifestyle which respects the dignity of all people throughout the year, especially children and the child-like.  Justice cannot simply be about Christmas but has to prevail in the midst of all men and women through the year.  Our preparation should be as to how we might be a people of God.

Every year we hear the same stories and listen o the same prayers; yet are not ready for that great moment of metanoia.  To be sure I get sort of sappy about some of the stories I read and hear.  I remember being so impressed with my freshman high school English teacher, who was really studying to be a midwife.  I was greatly moved by a priest who lived in the southwest side of Rockford, ministering to the prostitutes and other assembly of persons in the downtown area.  These and so many others lived the gospel.

Being prophetic maybe means to keep saying the same thing over and over again - but maybe that is not a bad thing.  Christmas is a day of joy, but a challenge to risk everything so as to find the reality of the Incarnation.  Christ becoming flesh certainly blesses our humanity, and asks what we are doing to prepare for Him.

In a way we are always celebrating this season of peace and good will.  We should always be seeking to offer one another tidings of gladness.  The manger is in all of our homes and can never be put away.