As we approach the 25th of December, we are reminded of the profound significance of Jesus Christ’s birth. His arrival on earth changed history. He was a Prince of Peace who came to reconcile humanity to God, as well as the human family within itself.  In Him Jew and Gentile became co-heirs of the Kingdom of God by faith.

Our joy at Christmas is tempered by our lament.

A lament that it has been a year since the TEASA community went on a 21 day fast to intercede for a just peace in Israel/ Palestine and an end to the genocide of Palestinians as well as an erasure of their civilization, including their schools, universities, libraries and hospitals. (For further reading on the lament go here)

We also recall that an international delegation of church leaders, led by Rev Dr Frank Chikane, visited Israel/Palestine last Christmas to stand with those who suffer, both in Israel and Palestine. It was a witness for peace in the middle of a bloodbath. Palestinian Christians were overwhelmed by this gesture of solidarity in their moment of great danger.

It reminded them that the child Jesus, born into the vulnerability of life in ancient Palestine, then under the Roman empire, was the solidarity of God with humanity in their predicament. It made Christmas come alive for them.