Dear Members of the Diocese of Central Pennsylvania,
Again, we are poised to celebrate the birth of Jesus, Emmanuel, “God With Us.”
Amid the swirl of music and holiday cheer, presents and colored lights, travel and the joyful gathering of family and friends, I pray that you will find a quiet moment to reflect on the wonder of God’s love for us.
Jesus came to us for the healing of the nations and to touch the hearts of humankind, each by each. His compassion, care for those on the margins, and striving for justice brought a new world order founded in love. Today, still, Jesus brings everything that we need. To receive this gift of salvation, God bids us to open our hearts and welcome Him in.
Madeleine L’Engle’s poem “First Coming” is a stunning reminder of God’s abiding love for us and the work of our salvation:
He did not wait till the world was ready,
till men and nations were at peace.
He came when the Heavens were unsteady,
and prisoners cried out for release.
He did not wait for the perfect time.
He came when the need was deep and great.
He dined with sinners in all their grime,
turned water into wine.
He did not wait till hearts were pure.
In joy he came to a tarnished world of sin and doubt.
To a world like ours, of anguished shame
he came, and his Light would not go out.
He came to a world which did not mesh,
to heal its tangles, shield its scorn.
In the mystery of the Word made Flesh
the Maker of the stars was born.
We cannot wait till the world is sane
to raise our songs with joyful voice,
for to share our grief, to touch our pain,
He came with Love: Rejoice! Rejoice!
May you and yours enjoy a beautiful Christmas and rejoice in the gift of Jesus.
In the Way of Love,
+Audrey