We do not need a holy feeling, but hard facts
It is that time of the year where you can hear Christmas carols almost everywhere you go. The old memories take you back into your childhood. Back then when our parents were still alive and we were finally allowed to enter the living room and approach the Christmas tree surrounded by presents our hearts beat faster. I can remember my parents reading the Christmas story from Luke chapter 2: “Suddenly an angel appeared in their midst and the glory of the Lord shone around them. The shepherds were terrified, but the angel calmed them saying: “Do not be afraid! Behold I am bringing you good news for all mankind! The Saviour, yes Christ the Lord, is born this night in Bethlehem in the city of David!”
Saviour? What, why? From what do we need to be saved?
Yesterday a funeral took place in Curahuasi. Hundreds of people followed in the deceased’s funeral train. The woman in the coffin had not even reached her 28th birthday. The mother of a baby succumbed to her severe illness. Two years ago she had been part of the hospital’s administration team.
And now this Jesus appears and says that he has conquered death. He can provide comfort where all other comforters fail. He promises never to leave us and talking with him is no autosuggestive meditating. The destiny of the world – climate change and maritime pollution included – are well taken care of in his hands.
If Christmas stands for this hope then it is worth celebrating. As far as I am concerned I have no greater wish than to get to know and to follow this Saviour. /KDJ Yuli Guerra centre – an archive photo from the Hospital Diospi Suyana.
