This Christmas season, we live in a world being transformed by technology, seismic shifts in geopolitical, philosophical movements and globalization. Yet the fundamentals remain the same. Human need - both intrinsic and existential - remain virtually the same as it did in previous epochs. That which was compelling and attractive with prior generations is also endearing now. While the church has adapted to the age of technology - it has not done so well. It is not enough to convey our worship with the most recent hi-tech delivery systems. In the end, we will still be judged by the world and by God Himself on whether we love well - whether we continue Christ's legacy of compassion to a hurting world.
If we increase in number yet diminish in influence this is indicative not of a need for more religious expression but in its quality. The abundance of salt, if it loses its saltiness is of less value - and is no longer salt - but sand, so says Jesus. In other words if our religion loses its precise expression - then it is no longer attractive or impactful. The true measure of effect is how well we love. The Word - was made flesh and moved in our neighborhood, so says St. John. The Word manifest itself in sacrificial love. We cannot distance ourselves from the world's problem. We must enter it - identify with those who are experiencing its crushing blow and testify to its remedy, in person.
A Savior was born into poverty to make others rich. Two questions we should ask of ourselves this Christmas is this: where is my personal Bethlehem and am I extending His legacy of love there?
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