Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller, MSpS, homily from Midnight Mass at San Fernando Cathedral

Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller, MSpS, homily from Midnight Mass at San Fernando Cathedral

December 25, 2017

When we walk in the deep darkness of night, we easily lose our way. We do not see clearly. We stumble on hidden obstacles. We do not recognize sources of danger. We experience fear and anxiety. We yearn for the first light of dawn. We long to be in the security and comfort of our family and home.

How consoling are the prophet’s words tonight: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shown! . . . for a child is born to us, a son is given us . . . they name him Prince of Peace!”

We gather tonight with the poor shepherds near Bethlehem and ponder the words of the angel: “I proclaim to you good news of great joy . . a savior has been born for you!” Jesus is the Savior — not only as a helpless, silent baby lying in a wooden manger but also a helpless man hanging on the wooden cross. It is the same Jesus! The same Savior! The same Lord! Jesus came to show us the deep and abiding love of our heavenly Father. We gather as a community in the presence of the living God and give “Glory to God in the highest” and pray for “peace on earth” today and forever!

As Jesus’ disciples, we are sent to walk in the Light of Christ every day of our lives. We no longer have to fear the darkness or to strive to survive in the darkness of our world. We are also to carry the light of Christ within us. We are to proclaim the truth about God, the world, and the human person created in God’s image. We are to bring the light of the gospel – the truth! — to everyone we encounter and into every situation. As followers of the Christ Child and the crucified Lord, we are to bring light into every place of darkness by our mercy, compassion, love, and care for everyone – especially the most vulnerable among us.

Mary is our example. “With the Holy Spirit, Mary is always present in the midst of the people,” Pope Francis says. “Mary was able to turn a stable into a home for Jesus, with poor swaddling clothes and an abundance of love. . . She is the woman whose heart was pierced by a sword and who understands all our pain. As mother of all, she is a sign of hope for peoples suffering the birth pangs of justice. She is the missionary who draws near to us and accompanies us throughout life. . . she walks at our side, shares our struggles, and constantly surrounds us with God’s love.”

Let us join the heavenly choirs singing “Glory to God in the highest!” Let us both pray for peace and commit ourselves to being peacemakers, bearers of the Light of Christ in our world! Let us dispel the darkness and walk in the Light, for Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life!!