The enduring truth of the Christmas story

OPINION:

With so much uncertainty in the world, from conflicts in Ukraine and Israel to economic struggles at home, the challenges we face might overshadow the joyous spirit of the Christmas season. But it is precisely in troubled times like these that the significance of the season matters most, reminding us where our genuine hope and security are truly to be found, and that is in a modest manger in Bethlehem. 

On that night two millennia ago, the humble shepherds stood in their fields tending their flocks when a celestial chorus of angels greeted them, causing fear to grip their hearts. Yet, in that very fear, they were reassured by the heavenly message: “I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.” 

These shepherds, ordinary men of the fields, then made a profound decision. After the angels left them, the shepherds said, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” Faced with uncertainty, they chose to embark on a journey spurred by the divine revelation they had received. Today, we have the opportunity to do the same – to set aside our own fear and uncertainty and go where we are called.

In the city of Bethlehem today, the birthplace of Christ, located in the West Bank, all nativity displays have been removed as war rages in Gaza following Hamas’ vicious and unprovoked attack on the Israeli people on October 7th. 

But the absence of visible signs of Christmas does not diminish the enduring truth of the Christmas story. It remains firmly planted in our hearts, just as it was in the hearts of the shepherds when they first beheld the baby in the manger. 

The good news of great joy still holds true for us today, just as it did for the shepherds in their own fear. This is the essence of Christmas – an unwavering truth that, regardless of the challenges we face or the uncertainties that loom over us, we need not be afraid.

Christ came into our world amidst the darkness to illuminate our lives with hope. In our darkest nights, when the foundations of our world shake, the invitation to ‘go to Bethlehem’ remains. Like the shepherds, we can turn to our loved ones and encourage each other to journey to Bethlehem in our hearts, witnessing our salvation that came in the form of a child in a manger so long ago.

Merry Christmas. 

• Mike Pence is a husband, father, grandfather, Christian, conservative and Republican — in that order. He served as the 48th vice president.