Inspiration for All in These Days
Ancient skygazers gave thanks on this day throughout antiquity, because they could see the tiny, miraculous change in the position of the sun on December 22 that signaled it would return to us and give us life.
Jews have just finished celebrating Chanukah, commemorating both the miraculous intervention of God and the courage of the Maccabees, villagers in an obscure hilltop settlement in the small Kingdom of Judah who rose up against the powerful Greek empire that ruled their lives, liberated Jerusalem and restored the Temple. It was also a rebellion against locally powerful aristocratic Jews who supported the foreign power and betrayed the ordinary Jews.
In the next few days, Christians will re-read Luke, and will again be moved by the miraculous birth of a baby, who called on us to renew our faith and heal our lives. “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”
Whether we are secular or religious, these days are full of inspiration for us. Those of us who are secular are reminded that life returns, that we can rise up against powerful elites who oppress us, and that we can heal our hearts and souls with determination and love.
Those of us who are religious are reminded that God provides and God heals, but asks us to help. There IS renewal, and peace, and justice awaiting us if only we will reach out for it.
For those of us who will have their children with them at this special time, take a moment to cherish the great blessings that have been showered upon us, imperfect as we are.
And for those whose children will not be with them, take a moment to remember that as long as there is life, there is hope, that this is the season of renewal, that together, and with a little help from above, we will create a more just world.
Together with you in the love of our children, with faith in the future, and with hopes for peace on earth and good will towards all.
Ned Holstein
Founder and Chair of the Board
National Parents Organization.
