EDITORIAL - A day of hope

The 12th day of the impeachment trial ended last Friday on a fitting note – the singing of the Jubilee Song. In the political turbulence, it is easy to forget that this is the Jubilee Year, and the Christian world is celebrating the 2,000th birth anniversary of Jesus Christ. For all the nation’s political and economic woes, no Grinch has hijacked this Christmas. There may have been fewer feasts last night, but there was simpler noche buena fare. People still flocked to churches for the midnight Mass and gathered with their loved ones to celebrate the birth of Jesus.

In the current political climate, is there room for the Christian gospel of love? At this time, probably not between political enemies. Forgiveness, reconciliation and unity may have to wait until justice is rendered. But it’s possible to pray for peace. Peace in Mindanao, which has been sidelined by the political crisis. Peace of mind for all – no amount of fame, fortune and power is worth the sleep of the damned. And peace for the nation amid the heated passions aroused by this crisis. We have shown the world that this nation is capable of peaceful change, and we can do it again.

In celebrating Christmas, we can ponder what is right, and muster the strength to do what is right. We can ponder how we can ease suffering – if not on this planet, at least in our little corner of the world. One of the messages of Christmas is sharing. We need not necessarily share material things. Instead we can provide shelter in an emotional storm, comfort the downcast and calm the anxious. Most analysts see bad times for the nation in the coming year. This Christmas we can draw on each other’s strength to prepare for the coming storm.

This is also a day of hope. Two thousand years of Christianity showed the power of faith and hope. Persecuted, chased out of their own land, the tiny band of people who believed in a crucified and resurrected Christ spread a message of love that is now celebrated by millions of people around the globe. On this day of joy, we hope for the best for the nation. A blessed Christmas to all!