Are We Ready to Live the Christmas Story?

As Christmas gets closer, we can feel the excitement in the air, decorations are up, shopping is in full swing and everyone is busy getting ready. But as we prepare, it’s good to ask: Are we really ready for Christmas? Beyond the decorations and presents, are we ready to welcome Jesus into our hearts?

In the song “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” we sing about waiting for the Lord to come. Soon, we will joyfully sing “Joy to the World!” But before all the celebrations begin, let’s pause and think about what Christmas is really about. It’s a time to step into the story of Jesus’ birth—not just as bystanders, but as people who are part of the story. Fr Dominic in his homily shares three points for us to prepare for birth of our Lord.

1. Read the Christmas Story: Luke 1:18–2:20

To get ready for Christmas, we need to go back to the heart of the season—the birth of Jesus. The Gospel of Luke tells the full story of Christmas. In Luke 1:18–2:20, we hear about the angel’s visit to Mary, her visit to Elizabeth, the journey to Bethlehem, and the birth of Jesus in a manger.

One thing to notice in this story is Mary’s response. When she learns that she will be the mother of Jesus, she doesn’t wait. In Luke 1:39, we are told that “Mary went with haste” to visit her cousin Elizabeth. It’s likely that Mary’s journey took a week, and it wasn’t an easy trip. But she went quickly, eager to be part of God’s plan. Like Mary, we are called to act with purpose as we prepare for Christmas.

2. Don’t Just Wait—Take Action Like Mary

Advent is often a time of waiting, but waiting isn’t just about doing nothing. It’s a time to get ready, spiritually and personally. Just as Mary hurried to visit Elizabeth, we are called to prepare for Christmas by acting now.

Here are some simple ways to get ready:

• Visit Someone: Just as Mary visited Elizabeth, maybe there’s someone in your life who needs a visit—a friend, family member, or neighbour who is lonely or struggling. A simple phone call or visit could bring them joy.
• Find a Quiet Place to Pray: Take some time to pray and reflect. Whether it’s in a church, a quiet spot at home, or a peaceful place outside, spend a few moments preparing your heart for the coming of Christ.
• Discover Your Role in the Christmas Story: Christmas isn’t just about remembering something that happened long ago. It’s about discovering how we are part of that story. This could mean showing kindness, helping others, or finding ways to serve.

3. Live the True Spirit of Christmas

The real joy of Christmas isn’t found in presents or decorations. It’s found in giving and sharing the love of Jesus. The birth of Jesus teaches us that Christmas is about humility, love, and bringing Christ’s light to those in need.

This Christmas, let’s focus on living out the true spirit of the season:

• Help Those in Need: There are many ways to serve others—through donations, volunteering, or simply reaching out to those who might be lonely or struggling. Look for ways to bring comfort and joy to others this season.
• Share the Good News: Share the Christmas story with others. Whether through a simple conversation or inviting someone to church, let the joy of Christ’s birth shine through in your words and actions.

Let’s not get distracted by the busy season. The decorations will come and go, and the presents will eventually be opened. But the true gift of Christmas—the birth of Jesus—requires something deeper from us. It calls us to prepare our hearts and live out His love in the world.

This Christmas, let’s make it about more than the surface celebrations. Let’s prepare spiritually. Let’s be part of the story. And most importantly, let’s allow the joy of Christ’s birth to transform our hearts and shine through in everything we do.

Now is the time to make Christmas matter, not just for a day, but in the way we live and love each day. Let’s truly be ready for Christmas.