Christmas Stories…

Dec 16

The other day, my older sister texted me to explain that it was the 55th anniversary of the classic television Christmas special “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.” Social media was celebrating this milestone by sharing images, memories, and reactions to the cartoon that first aired in December 1970.

The Rankin/Bass stop-motion animation special was a part of my childhood – and the childhood of a whole generation. My sisters, cousins, neighbors, and friends can all retell the basic story of Kris Kringle, the Burgermeister, Jessica, and the Winter Warlock. We can still sing the silly songs and share fond memories from Christmases long, long, ago. Looking back many years later, we recognize that a simple television special had such a profound impact on our young lives.

Holiday entertainment specials are still a staple each December. Whether watching them on television, sharing them on social media, or reminiscing in our hearts, we can be instantly transported to another time and place. A classic holiday story can have a lasting impact at Christmas and throughout the year.

Storytelling is an integral part of Christmas and is fundamental to our faith. Jesus used parables to pass on His message, and His disciples continued this tradition by proclaiming the Good News to the ends of the earth. Today, the liturgy and seasons of the church year help us to enter into these stories and share our faith. Through the Church calendar, we can connect to the mysteries of Christ and unite heaven and earth in remembrance and celebration.

As we watch or revisit Christmas television specials over the next few weeks, may we recognize that the mystery of Christmas has transformed our world and can still transform our lives.

The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus is “the greatest story ever told.” It is a classic.

The story of Jesus’ birth can inspire us to share our own faith story. During this time of year, it is easy to reminisce about the past or dream about the future. St. Francis de Sales would tell us to focus on the present moment. Christmas is always about the present. It is not just a commemoration of something in the past. It is not a promise for a better tomorrow. The Incarnation is a moment to embrace our human condition. It is a time to accept our frailty and strengthen our faith. Christmas can calm our spirits, excite our hearts, and fill our lives with comfort and joy.

Christmas is the moment to live Jesus.