A Thrill of Hope, A Weary World Rejoices

The world feels awfully weary right now doesn’t it? 

The generative active life of an adult Christian does feel weary. It’s exhausting living, working, caring for ourselves and our homes, spouses and families; and trying to do all the things that being a Christian requires -- growing in virtue, frequenting the Sacraments, praying daily, serving others, and standing up for moral and just ideals in a society that seems to live counter to the way we do. 

It’s like we’re constantly battling a strong wave that wants to push Christ out of the world.

And if your eyes are truly open and seeing the real sufferings and injustices of your brothers and sisters in Christ, weariness can just keep on deepening. One trip to the poorer side of town to visit a neighbor in need will show you just how weary the world is. My weariness can’t even compare to the weariness of those who struggle to make ends meet and are living on the margins.

That’s why this Christmas, these words of O Holy Night especially speak to me: A thrill of hope, a weary world rejoices. There’s a thrill of hope to be found in Christ’s birth, and for a moment, we can rejoice that Christ our Savior has come to earth and will come again.

When I’m most weary, I often think of that hope. Someday all the work, strife, sufferings, and struggles will be worth it when I see my Savior face to face and I can say I did and endured it all for Him, just as He came, suffered, and died for me. 

This Christmas, meditate on the face of your Savior lying in a manger, a little baby boy coming to give you a thrill of hope in the midst of your weary walk on earth. And rejoice! For you will see Jesus face to face again someday in the light of eternity.