A Birthday Gift for Jesus

My dear brothers and sisters,

Every year, we come together to celebrate Christmas, the birth of Jesus.  But instead of giving gifts to the guest of honor, we buy gifts for family and friends.   Did you ever wonder, if you were invited to the birthday party of Jesus what you would bring?  The magi brought gold, frankincense and myrrh.  The little drummer boy brought his musical talent.    After some thought, I believe Jesus told us what he wants.  He wants us to love and care for each other.    It cannot be clearer then when, in Chapter 25 of the Gospel of Matthew, He said: whatever you do for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you do for me… For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,  I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’

If you are looking for the meaning of Christmas or even the meaning of life, that is it.  Pretty simple! He wants us to love our neighbors.    Jesus taught and lived the reality that all people are our brothers and sisters-no matter what country of origin or religion.  He also asks us to reach out without judgement to those who are poor, in prison and the homeless.  

As Christmas approaches, we see thousands of people throughout the world who are innocent victims of natural disasters and violence and we hear so much negative language that fuels anger and distrust.  Go against this grain this Advent by reaching out to someone in need as a birthday gift to Jesus. Warning: it can become habit forming and please do not forget your brothers and sisters in Guaymas.

God bless you during this special time of the year,

Fr. Tommy

1 Comment

  1. Marilyn Astore (one of Father Tommy's sisters) on November 29, 2017 at 10:36 pm

    Thank you for this wonderful Christmas message, Tommy!

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