This Crèche stands in front of our parish church – St.
Christopher’s Burlington – which we joined when
we moved from Toronto
The Magi or astrologers are travelling from stage left and
will eventually arrive to present their gifts, but I focused my photo here so
we could concentrate on the shepherds.
The shepherds, who heard the angels’ message and responded, seem
to always represent the commonality of humanity – those who feel they have no
place in the more rigid, highly regulated structures of organized religious
institutions.
The presence of the shepherds at the first Christmas is a
powerful message… to them, and to likeminded individuals that they were not
forgotten by their creator. We need to compare God sending Moses to God’s
people in Egypt to assure them that God
had heard their years of praying and soon they would be freed from their
slavery in that foreign land.
The cross, towering above St. Christopher’s physical building
(similar to most if not all Christian churches) acts as a constant reminder
that God loved us so much that Jesus came into this world to die on a cross and
rise from the dead so we might receive forgiveness of all our sins. That shows
the power of God’s love for each of us.
I included the flag to show that wherever we are in the
universe we are standing on our “holy land” – created by God. Canada is our Holy Land .
Today, think of all the shepherds who care for us in our
daily lives. Pray for them.
********************
The Crèche is a nativity set
depicting the birth of Jesus Christ. Since St. Francis built the first Crèche
in the 13th century, the idea has expanded around the world. Even
though people frame their Crèches to reflect their local customs, traditions,
cultures and materials, the central focus is always the same – the birth of the
Saviour. During the 12 days of Christmas, I will share 12 Crèches and their
messages. Hope you enjoy them.
Love to hear your thoughts on the Creches in COMMENTS below.
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