What Expectations Do You Have For Christmas?

by Father Benton Garrett, LCDR, CHC, USN

The establishment of the timing of our Savior’s birth inferred by the list of governors, high priests, and rulers in this Sunday’s Gospel made me imagine how these characters might look in the standard chain of command picture board we see outside of every headquarters’ office.

It also brought to mind the circumstances of that first Christmas over two thousand years ago. Though it would fulfill what had been prophesied about the Messiah’s birthplace, a pregnant Mary was packed up and taken to Bethlehem not for some sacred purpose but because of a government census promulgated by leaders of the day. Poor Joseph could not find a dignified room for them and, just as the Holy Family seemed to be in the clear, unexpected visitors brought news of the Herod’s treachery, sending them into exile like refugees.

The first Christmas did not happen the way Joseph and Mary thought it would; it was spent away from home and was stressful. In spite of everything, the great miracle of our incarnate Lord and Savior happened and Mary and Joseph adored the child Jesus entrusted to their care.

As we prepare the way of the Lord in our souls and our families this Advent season, let us guard against the unrealistic expectations presented to us by commercials and materialism. If we are deployed/away from home this Christmas or find our selves in the midst of holiday stress, let us accompany Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem preparing our hearts to behold the miracle of our incarnate God and Savior. This Advent Season, let us fan the flames of the good works of God which have already begun in us so that we may discern what is of true value and so be filled with the fruit of righteousness through Jesus Christ so that all flesh shall see the salvation of God and know that Jesus Christ is Lord.

Father Garrett is an active-duty Navy Chaplain currently serving Marines at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan.