By Val Streff
Special to the Herald
Christmas is a great time to focus on the incarnation of Jesus.
Jesus took upon himself human flesh to save the world. Jesus conceived in the womb of the Blessed Mother shows us how God values life, especially the unborn.
Passages 2270 and 2271 of the “Catechism of the Catholic Church” stress:
- CCC 2270: “Human life must be respected and protected absolutely from the moment of conception. … ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you.’”
- CCC 2271: “Direct abortion, (…) abortion willed either as an end or a means, is gravely contrary to the moral law: ‘You shall not kill the embryo by abortion and shall not cause the newborn to perish.’”
The church promotes a society that protects the unborn and shares the many resources available in the community with those who find themselves with an unexpected pregnancy. See a priest or deacon for spiritual guidance; you can also contact the Pearson Place Pregnancy Resource Center at (808) 942-0328 for more information. Your life and your baby’s life matter to us.
Joseph and Mary struggled like many families of today: During Jesus’ birth, they were in a stable, which expresses God’s favor to the poor and marginalized.
The shepherds, the lowest class of people in society, were the first to herald the birth of Christ. God often uses humble means to highlight significant moments in history.
We are reminded in the catechism:
- CCC 2443: “God blesses those who come to the aid of the poor and rebukes those who turn away from them.”
- CCC 2462: “Giving alms to the poor is a witness to fraternal charity: It is also a work of justice pleasing to God.”
- CCC 2463: “How can we not recognize Lazarus, the hungry beggar in the parable, in the multitude of human beings without bread, a roof or a place to stay? How can we fail to hear Jesus: ‘As you did it not to one of the least of these, you did it not to me’ (Mt 25:45)?”
Christmas is a time of giving. What are some of the ways you will give of yourself to another?
When Mary was told by the angel Gabriel that she would conceive a son and call him Jesus, she was also told that her cousin Elizabeth was six months pregnant.
After the angel’s visit, Mary went in haste to help Elizabeth because she knew she would need help, staying with her cousin for three months. Do we take the time to care for those who are elderly, sick or dying? Christmas is a great opportunity to bring cheer to others.
According to “Ethical Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services (sixth edition),” we are to share in carrying God’s life-giving and healing work. All those who are sick or dying are to be given the utmost care to relieve pain and to support them with dignity and respect.
We look forward to Christmas, anticipating the birth of Jesus on Christmas Day. We also spend the Christmas season anticipating the second coming of Christ. He will come in full glory to judge the world and each of us. Are we ready? What are some of the things God might ask about on judgment day?
- Our relationship with God.
- Love of God and love of neighbor.
- Stewardship: How have we used our time, talent and treasure?
- Acts of mercy: feeding the hungry and visiting the sick (Mt 25).
Respecting life is not a one-day event but an every day, every hour event with those around us and in our communities. We are asking you to join us in supporting life at the March for Life Mass Jan. 22, then at the March for Life rally Jan. 23.
The catechism states: “It is the duty of citizens to contribute along with the civil authorities to the good of society in a spirit of truth, justice, solidarity and freedom. The love and service of one’s country follow from the duty of gratitude and belong to the order of charity.” (CCC 2239)
Catholics should review Catholic Social Teaching and the “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship” document published by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. We are encouraged to take a stand to form the conscience of people so they can examine the issues and make choices based on Catholic moral and social teachings.
Eva Andrade, president and CEO of the Hawaii Family Forum, will hold a session on politics Feb. 28 at St. John Apostle and Evangelist Church in Mililani. Please join us.
Val and Deacon Gary Streff are co-directors of the diocesan Respect Life Office. Call (808) 203-6722 for more information.
An attendee held a poster during the 52nd annual March for Life rally Jan. 24 in Washington. (Bob Roller / OSV News)