Today we are invited with the shepherds to listen... In the stillness we can hear the Word of God.  In the words of Isaiah the prophet:  "The people who dwell in darkness have seen a great light.  Their yoke, their burden has been lifted.  A child is born, a son is given.  He is called: Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, Father Forever, Prince of Peace, on his shoulders dominion rests, and his kingdom shall be without end!"  From these grand and eloquent words our vision is directed to a stable.  We have been told, and we believe that the Almighty, the Everlasting Father, has sent his Son, born of Eternity to become a human baby- in a filthy, smelly stable in a backward, out of the way nation, amidst a people who would not receive him. 
    Why would God, the Son, desire to be reduced to such a state of utter weakness?  Why would he become a little baby totally dependent on his human parents and our hostile human community?  Why was he hidden in such a destitute condition?  No wonder his own knew him not when he came among them.  This was no place for the birth of the king of kings.
    Some things never change. Even to this day we must seek for Christ in the unexpected places.  He remains hidden from the rich and the powerful.  But those who are poor, like the shepherds, may find him.  Those wise, like the magi, may seek him out.
    It is good that today we look for him.  But remember that this is just one of his moments in time.  Jesus is always the firstborn, begotten not made, consubstantial with the Father.  He was present at the beginning of creation, for through him all things were made.  And by the power of the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary and became man.  He continues to become en-fleshed in this world through you and me.  He remains the first born, but he is also the last born.  In every age his Mystical Body, the Church, is being born.  Today, as it was 2000 years ago, and as it will be until the end of ages, Christ comes to those who are poor and wise and seek him.
    May the Child of Bethlehem grant you peace his peace in your hearts and in your homes!  Merry Christmas!