The most significant factors  which are  highlighted in Christmas season are  the humble birth of Jesus and  the need for humility in the lives of those who claim to love God. It is seen in Mary and is made very evident in the birth of Jesus. Jesus was conceived in an aura of humility and was born in an ambience of humility. No other factor is so much stressed in the first Christmas as the aspect of humility.  But as days passed , the lowly manger is replaced by  grand  cribs  which display splendour and glamour.

Obedience is possible where there is humility. When Mary was informed about  God’s choice , she accepted that with astounding humility. Lack of pride, made it easier for her to accept what God wanted  her to do. Pride made Eve question the  exhortation of God. Her desire was to become like God and she thought that she was denied  some privileges. But Mary was humble  enough  to accept  the great challenge because she trusted in God. The one quality which made   Eve   fall into the devil’s trap  and  subjected the whole humanity to curse, was her pride. But Mary’s meekness  gave her the privilege of being the mother of the  Saviour through whom the humanity is redeemed.  So we see how the world faces disaster through the pride of one and how the humanity  benefits through  the meekness of the other.

Mary’s  humility  led to her total surrender to the will of God. A virgin becoming a mother is a matter of great concern in any community. But Mary surrendered all her fears and apprehensions  to God because there was no self-will  which is the product of pride. That’s  why  she was in a position to say,  “ May it be to me as you have said.”  which in other words means ,“  Thy will be done”. Perfect acceptance of God’s will  is possible when  the  mind is free from selfish agenda dictated by dominating pride. 

Our humility and our consequent acts and thoughts will bring deliverance to many.  Celebration of Christmas will be more meaningful if adequate thought is given to this aspect.  Mary’s obedience  resulting from her meekness, brought deliverance to the world. At this season , let us dedicate ourselves to follow the humble path that was  shown  during the first Christmas

May God  renew our spirit in this Christmas season  and make us a blessing to many in the New Year. 

Dr. (Mrs.) Edriana Jeyasingh