Christmas, 2011


During a recent meal with friends the conversation around our table flowed with local and distant news stories of the day. They reminded us of our own personal struggles and weakened our hopes for justice in a world where financial considerations trump humanitarian assistance and military might drives negotiations for peace. But like an ocean wave sliding back into the sea exposing driftwood deposited on the sand, the ebb and flow of our stories soon divulge damaged systems of governments, economic institutions, and church communities.

While we were seeking solace with sweet-tart cherry pie and robust coffee, a quiet voice next to me asked, “What do you think about our future?”
I started to ramble about persistence for change and resistance to injustice. Then I remembered that my 70+ year old friend had dedicated his life to advocating for justice, even once being a prisoner of conscience. I let go of my need to give a definitive answer. I asked, “What do you think?”
In a voice barely audible he responded with painful sincerity, “I think it’s hopeless.”
It was a treasonous word, whether about our country, our economy or our church. It brings us down. But perhaps it’s necessary. As necessary as the words of Mary pregnant with Jesus,

He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,
and lifted up the lowly;
He has filled the hungry with good things,
and sent the rich away empty. (Luke 1: 52-53)

Today, in that same country, our Palestinian friends living under Israeli occupation for over 60 years say, “Hope means standing up to injustice even when nothing can be seen ahead but ruin and destruction.” May this Christmastide uplift us with hope and free our voices to sing the prayer, “Joy to the World.”