The nativity scene at the Lutheran Church in Bethlehem | Photo from @MutherIsaac on X
Christmas in Bethlehem is usually a very festive event at this time. The war on Gaza has changed the mood and character of the celebration. The Lutheran Pastor Munther Ishaq tells Al Jazeera that, in solidarity with the situation in Gaza, the Christians in Bethlehem have recast their celebration of Christmas. He says: “Bethlehem is sad and broken.”
In his church, instead of having lights and a Christmas tree, he shows the nativity scene with the Baby Jesus under the rubble. Around him are Mary and Joseph, the magi and shepherd, looking for Jesus amid destruction. This icon is in solidarity with the many people, especially children, who are victims of conflict and violence and are being rescued under the rubble. It is a powerful symbol of Jesus’ solidarity with those who suffer from violence.
God is truly with us in whatever situation we may find ourselves in. If God is with us, then there is hope. Christmas is the birth of a new hope and of God’s never-ending accompaniment of us. We take comfort in the words of Kate Bowler, a stage-four cancer patient at the prime of her academic career and family life. When things turn upside down for her, when she navigates the world of uncertainty, when she makes a major reset in her life, she still manages to call her ailment a “blessing”. She captures the heart and soul of Christmas: “We are loved. We are loved. We are loved. And best of all, we are not alone.”
Blessed Christmas and hope-filled New Year to one and all!
