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Archbishop: We can rethink and turn our concerns into consideration
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This is a discussion article. The author is responsible for the opinions expressed in the text, not Aftonbladet.
Photo: TT
Even in times of anxiety and vulnerability, God opens windows that provide us with air and light. We can rethink and turn our concerns into consideration this Christmas, writes Bishop Antje Jackelén.
DEBATE. “Some shepherds were tending their flocks at night.” That is what the well-known Christmas story of the second chapter of the Gospel of Luke says. In the dark, the shepherds take turns protecting themselves from predators. The conditions are harsh, the quality of life is not exactly top-notch.
On Christmas Eve 2020, we have a lot in common with these shepherds. It is true that not many of us are keeping sheep. On the contrary, nowadays we do most of the things from home, expelled from what we saw as a normal life.
But we protect ourselves, not from wolves, but from viruses. And there are also other predators: those who deprive us of peace and well-being both from within and from within ourselves.
Out of the ordinary, we save life. Like the shepherds on Christmas night.
When Luke wrote the story of the birth of Jesus, he wanted to show that the words of the prophet Isaiah, which had come 700 years earlier, are true:
“The night will give way where anxiety now reigns. People who walk in darkness see great light, on those who live in the land of darkness the light shines. Raise the cheers, you make the joy great … Because a child has been born “.
Pastors will be the first to hear the good news. An angel approaches them and says: “Don’t be afraid! I wish you great joy, joy for all the people. Today a Savior has been born to you … a newborn baby who is wrapped and lying in a manger. “
A joy for all people: Christmas night does not make a difference between people and people.
As much joy for the one who lived in the hustle and bustle as for the care staff who have worked hard to save lives? As much joy for the rightly condemned as for the victim? So much joy for the one who has achieved the almost superhuman as for the one who always rides for free? Can it really be okay?
Christmas night doesn’t make a difference to people. Everyone needs a Savior and the Savior has been born for everyone.
For humans and all of creation, it’s no wonder there are so many animals there at night: sheep, oxen, donkeys, and probably the occasional mouse in the barn as well; and until the thirteenth day the camel will come!
The nativity scenes capture an unforgettable snapshot: the child rests happily, Mary and Joseph reflect, the star shines, the angel shines, the shepherds are amazed and the wise men are on their way to find the right one.
Animals and human beings feel the peace and light of Christmas, touched by the radical love of God.
At the same time, fear and pain are not far away. It is found in Maria, who has just given birth to her first child. It is also found in José y los pastores. The night is cold and no Christmas table has been served. But right there God is near. God is not up there. Without God with us, God among us.
God does not keep at a distance but seeks closeness. God exposes himself to the danger of death by becoming human, for our salvation.
The biggest, best and most beautiful that we can imagine, God, comes to us in a little child who awakens our love. Not to get us out of our lives, but to find ourselves in the middle of our lives.
We do not know what the conversations at the shepherds’ campfire were like then. If the wolves still came and tore the sheep. About work and everyday fights, a gray film covered the joy.
As we still do not know when the vaccine will beat the spread of the virus. As if the joy of life can be tarnished by what we and others do or do not do.
But one thing is certain: even in times of anxiety and vulnerability, God opens windows that provide us with air and light. We can rethink and turn our concerns into solidarity. God himself changed his mind. Instead of being immensely distant, God approached infinitely.
That consideration can give us comfort, courage, and hope!
Antje Jackelén, archbishop
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