Time for love and understanding

Christmas is here again. Christians the world over will celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, Son of God, today. His words to the faithful still ring true in today's world yearning for peace. His message is relevant today as it was 2000 years ago - Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. John 14:17

Christmas has become a national celebration in Sri Lanka's multi-ethnic, multi-religious society. People belong to other religions actively participate in Christmas festivities and help their Christian brethren in their Christmas activities. That, in a sense, embodies the very spirit of Christmas and Sri Lanka's imperative need for religious and communal unity. The fruit of the spirit is love, joy and peace. Galatians 5:22

This Christmas is especially significant for Sri Lankans due to several reasons. All Sri Lankans, not just Catholics, rejoiced when a son of the soil, Archbishop Dr Malcolm Ranjith, was elevated to the status of a Cardinal by the Pontiff. He is only the second Sri Lankan to be made a Cardinal, after the late Thomas Cardinal Cooray. This is indeed an honour to Mother Lanka and we hope that His Eminence will be a guiding light not only for Catholics, but also for all Sri Lankans, on the country's journey towards prosperity. His wisdom and insights will be valuable for a nation seeking to rebuild itself. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

Another reason is that resettlement in the North is almost complete, after the liberation of Northern residents from the clutches of LTTE terrorism. This is a spectacular achievement, considering that the battle against terrorism ended barely 18 months ago. Sri Lanka is finally one - and a firm foundation has been laid for lasting peace and reconciliation. Seek peace, and pursue it. Psalms 34:14

Peace and reconciliation have eluded our Nation for 30 long years. Christmas Day, as well as the sixth anniversary of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami which falls tomorrow, are ideal opportunities for all Sri Lankans to reflect on the need to love each other, understand each other. Christmas is truly a time for healing, for giving and for forgiving. Be Kind to one another, tendern hearted, forgiving one another. Ephesians 4:32.

This change should come from within. It is the inner mind that we should cleanse of all impure thoughts. God should reside in the hearts of the faithful and peace shall radiate from such hearts. The Kingdom of God is within you. Luke 17:21.

Christmas is also a time to think about the thousands who perished in the quest for peace in this country. They have given their today for our tomorrow. We should also lend a helping hand to the less fortunate among us this Christmas. That is the only way to spread the joy of Christmas to the entire community. He who is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward him for what he has done. Proverbs 19:17

There is a danger that we could miss or forget the message of Jesus amidst the sheer commercialism of the Christmas season with illuminations, decorations and shopping sprees. The younger generation must be taught to look beyond the colourful decorations and find the true meaning of Christmas. It is not only about the birth of a great man, but also about celebrating His enduring legacy to a world torn apart by conflict. Thus we must strive to focus on the spiritual side of this great event. At this momentous juncture, His inspiring words can heal our wounds and give us hope for a brighter future. That is the message the faithful should convey to their children. For I know the plans I have for you - plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

A bright future is what every Sri Lankan seeks. Sri Lanka is poised to reach greater heights in the coming years, on a foundation of peace and unity. Christians - and indeed all others - can make a major contribution to this drive. Unity and mutual co-existence should be the bedrock on which Sri Lanka rises to become a wonder of Asia. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds all together in perfect unity. Colossians 3:13-14