The Nativity

As we write this column the whole Christendom will be celebrating the Nativity or the birth of Jesus Christ. In fact our local churches have started the Midnight Masses or Simbang Gabi. It is also the start of family reunions and the traditional exchanges of Christmas gifts and other forms of gift-giving. Be that as it may, Christmas day is not merely a one day affair. For indeed, every time we extend our assistance to those who knock on our door begging for help for the purchase of medicines for an ailing relative, it is Christmas all over again; every time we extend our help to one needing clothes on one’s back, it is Christmas all over again, every time we extend help to those begging for rice, it is Christmas all over again; and every time we help someone needing a roof over his head it is Christmas all over again. For indeed, has not history told us that our Virgin Mother did not find a room in the Inn with which to give birth to her son Jesus hence, she give birth in a Manger amidst the presence of the Three Wise Men; has not theologians also revealed to us that the birth of Jesus was also replete with controversy as Emperor Herod ordered the slaying of newly born babies when the Three Wise Men failed to return back to him in the belief that Jesus would reign as King of Jerusalem; is it not that part of what we learned that the same persons who hailed Jesus Alleluia are the same persons who shouted “Crucify him, Crucify him” Indeed, even in the face of Covict 2 or its variant Omicron, let me wish you in advance in my own behalf and that of my spouse Minda all the joys of Christmas and a Happy New Year!

TRIVIA:

Belated birthday greetings to Dr. Noel Tino of Bato, Camarines Sur on the occasion of his birthday anniversary last Sunday, December 12. Dr. Tino is a former vice-mayor of Bato and a first cousin of my spouse Minda.

Likewise, belated birthday greetings to my grand daughter Samantha Noelle Aguino who celebrated her birthday with her friends and batchmate last December 11. She is presently on a scholarship grant abroad.

Greetings to my batchmate Pomping Requinta and Atty. Gilbert Morandarte who will be having their Christmas gathering with some friends at the residence of Gilbert this coming Friday. I am sure Gilbert will roll out the barrel.

QUOTATION OF THE WEEK:

“I COUNT HIM BRAVER WHO CONQUERS HIS DESIRES THAN HIM WHO CONQUERS HIS ENEMIES. FOR THE HARDEST VICTORY IS THE VICTORY OVER SELF.” - ARISTOTLE

FOR OUR WORD OF LIFE:

“FOR I AM THE LORD, YOUR GOD, WHO GRASP YOUR RIGHT HAND; IT IS I WHO SAY TO YOU, “FEAR NOT I WILL HELP YOU.” - PSALM 41:15