A love beyond all telling



"For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." —Romans 8:38-39

 Christmas is associated with love, especially the love of a God whose fullness we have all received. Paul assures us that we are bound to God in Christ Jesus and nothing can separate us. This unity is the real gift of Christmas. Other gifts are nice, but ultimately unsatisfying.

 Of course, most of us don't know this. We keep searching for the perfect gift unaware that we already have it. Only in contemplative prayer can we experience this fullness of love that is poured into us. And as Richard Rohr says, "Love is One, and this Love is either shared and passed on or it is not the Great Love at all." Christmas is a time of sharing and passing on God's love to our families, friends, associates, and all whom God puts in our path. 

 So when we gather around our Christmas tree or table, may we be cognizant of the Great Love that unites us and fills us with warmth and gratitude and amazement. 
Nativity Scene, Christmas, Santon


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