The Nativity Scene is one of the most beloved symbols in Christianity. It is perhaps one of the of the most painted scenes in the history of art. At this time of year, Nativity Scenes are set up with great love and devotion in homes and churches around the world. Before the celebration of Jesus’ birth on Christmas Day, the Nativity Scene with its empty Manger proclaims the anticipation of a people who await the coming of God’s love in their midst. After the celebration of Christ’s birth, when the baby Jesus is placed in the Manger, the Nativity Scene proclaims the presence of a loving God with His people. The birth of Christ into the poverty of the Manger not only proclaims God’s love for us, but it announces boldly the extent to which God will go to show us His love for every single person. Born into absolute poverty, Jesus wishes to show us that there is nothing that will get in the way of His loving us. No matter where we find ourselves in this world, Jesus desires to come among us and be our God. He is truly God with us- or as the scriptures call Him, Emmanuel. In the midst of this ongoing pandemic, when so many people are isolated and alone, often without feeling any sense of hope, the Manger takes on a powerful significance as it announces to all of us God’s desire to be with us in these difficult and troubled times. The Manger reminds us that God will come to us no matter what our situations. To these situations, He will bring real hope. There is only one sign that speaks more powerfully of God’s love for us, and the extent to which He will go to show us that love, and that is the sign of the Cross, which in the context of the pandemic announces that God will even bring life to where we have encountered earthly death. Continue reading →