Many parents and grandparents are observing the state of the world, and are worried—if not despairing—over what lies in store for their children and grandchildren. After all, it is the universal hope of all generations that those following will have a better life, in a more just and happier world.
Alas, this has almost never been the case, except for those very few instances whereby truly disruptive technology transformed everyone’s life. Examples would be the chlorination of water (still the greatest benefit science has ever given mankind), the harnessing of fossil fuel and electricity, and the development of telecommunications.
But, even when chlorination’s first generation got over the euphoria of not fearing cholera with every sip of water, you can bet that the problems of that world returned to the forefront in a big hurry. No Eden without a serpent, as they say.
For believers, Christmas marks the Nativity of Our Lord, and the season of Advent expresses the anticipation we feel. Christmas gives us hope since God Himself came down in human form to experience all the problems of the world with us. He was no longer distant. Surely, Judea in ca. 4 BC was at least as bad as the US in 2023.
As with any earthly story, there were three acts: Introduce the conflict, expand the conflict, resolve the conflict. Jesus the Son would earn the enmity of the Jewish religious establishment as he reached adulthood, this division would shake the Holy Land to its very core, and the conflict was at least partially resolved with His death. Of course, another much bigger story followed that. The greatest sequel of all time.
Even non-believers notice a sense of peace during this season, if nothing more than observing that most wars seem to take a Christmas break. People seem to be kinder to one another (except in retail settings). Most of us spend more time with our families and try mightily to repair any ill feelings.
We also try to ignore—for a short time—the manifold problems of this world.
Gloria in excelsis Deo! Felicem natalem Christi.
Amen, brother.