Some think it ends with the final blessing at Christmas morning Mass. Some think it’s officially over when Wal-Mart opens its doors early on the 26th to face the endless lines of customers exchanging pants that might have fit last year.
Others think the moment comes when you trudge into the office or classroom after Christmas break, in many cases before New Year’s.
But Pope Benedict and the universal Church know when Christmas season really ends: on the Feast of the Epiphany, when the Magi drop in on Jesus, Mary and Joseph for a surprise visit.
Why the big rush? Why do we think Christmas has to be over as quickly as possible so that we can move on to “normal life”? Maternity leave doesn’t end the day after childbirth; we know that a new mom needs weeks off work, not only to recover her physical strength, but most of all to be with her newborn, who is especially vulnerable and in need of love to start life well. Does the birth of our Savior have to be any different? Are a few hours or even a few days enough time to give the newborn Lord the love he deserves? That’s why the Church gives us a liturgical season lasting more than two weeks to occupy our minds and hearts with the mystery of God who became man for our salvation.
After all, if the Magi’s visit was a surprise, the visit of God almighty to earth is a much greater one.
By Colin Gore
By Colin Gore
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