Christmas Reimagined: Finding Strength in Humility and Love Amidst the Chaos

As the holiday season unfolds, we are reminded of the profound complexity that lies at the heart of Christmas. The irony of celebrating the God of the universe in the form of a vulnerable infant in a humble manger invites us to reassess our understanding of strength and influence. The image of the Christ child, so recognizable and cherished, stands in stark contrast to the values that often dominate contemporary society—power, aggression, and the pursuit of dominance. F.W. Boreham eloquently articulated this paradox, suggesting that instead of large armies and brute force, God employs the innocence and humility of "beautiful babies" to enact change in the world. This notion challenges us to redefine what it means to be influential. Christmas urges us to see that love, gentleness, and meekness can be far more transformative than might. In a world rife with conflict and division, the message of the nativity speaks volumes about the strength found in tenderness. The tragic events surrounding the murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson serve as a contemporary backdrop to this timeless lesson. The suspect, Luigi Mangione, was initially portrayed as a modern-day Robin Hood, taking a stand against perceived injustices within the healthcare system. However, as the narrative unfolded, it became evident that this portrayal fell flat. Mangione's lack of genuine charisma and his disconnection from those he claimed to champion revealed a deeper truth about the futility of seeking change through violence and anger. As we navigate the complexities of our political and social landscapes, many Americans are disillusioned with the perpetual cycle of conflict. A recent Pew Survey illustrates this sentiment, indicating that a majority believe political leaders are more focused on personal rivalries than on solving pressing societal issues. This fatigue with incessant fighting highlights a collective yearning for leaders who prioritize the common good over their own egos. The humble carpenter's son, whose birth we celebrate every December, offers a radical alternative to the prevailing narrative of power and conflict. Jesus's influence grew not through violence or coercion but through love, compassion, and self-sacrifice. The heroes of the Christmas story are not the powerful but the humble—shepherds and wise men—who recognized the significance of the child in the manger. In stark contrast, Herod, a ruler consumed by fear and anger, sought to maintain his grasp on power through violence, ultimately leaving a legacy of infamy rather than lasting impact. Yet, even after centuries, humanity struggles to embrace the profound truth that the path to lasting change often lies in quietness and humility rather than in confrontation. Our culture bombards us with messages urging us to take a stand, to fight for our beliefs, often at the expense of civility and compassion. This confrontational mindset can lead to an erosion of genuine dialogue and understanding. For many, including those within the Christian faith, the call to fight for justice can easily morph into vindictiveness. Yet, the true essence of the Christmas message lies in gentleness, mercy, and grace. Justice devoid of compassion morphs into something unrecognizable and, ultimately, ineffective. As C.S. Lewis pointed out, Christianity presents a narrative of resistance against oppression, where the true nature of influence is revealed not through dominance but through acts of kindness and love. Christmas invites us to embrace tenderness as a strength, a potent force for change. It reveals that genuine influence is rooted in responsiveness to the needs of others. As Terryl and Fiona Givens remind us, our choices reflect our true selves and our deepest affections. This holiday season, we are called to reflect on the values that guide our actions and reactions in a world often filled with turmoil. As we celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace, let us remember that true power often lies in the willingness to relinquish control and to extend love, forgiveness, and understanding even to those we might consider adversaries. The good news of Christmas is a reminder that, ultimately, love will prevail. In this season of giving, let us strive to embody the message of the manger, offering not just our strength but our hearts to a world in need of healing.