"Where do we see the light of the world? Is America, the American empire, the light shining in the darkness? Jim Wallis, in his important book God's Politics, reports that our president on the first anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 2001 spoke of America as 'the light shining in the darkness.' The statement is remarkably similar to Rome's claim to be Apollo, the bringer of light. Or do we see the light of the world in Jesus, who stood against empire and indeed was executed by imperial authority?
"We are aware that the above might sound like an indictment of our present president and the policies of his administration. But our point is the perennial temptation of imperial power and hubris. The peril comes from the ways of empire, not from a particular president and administration.
"To return to who we are and who we might be in the stories of the first Christmas. Are we like Mary, willing to say, 'Let it be with me according to your word,' obedient to the role she had been given in bringing about a different kind of world?
"What if we were to identify with the shepherds? They represent those of lowly status, the socially and economically marginalized. Or do we, to use words from later in the gospel, identify with 'those who put on fine clothing and live in luxury in royal palaces' (Luke 7:25; Matt. 11:8)?
"Perhaps few readers of this book fall into either category.
"But the story of the shepherds invites those of us who have some wealth and influence to become disenchanted elites, no longer mesmerized by the claims of empire to be the light and hope of the world. If we identify with the shepherds, we will dream of and seek a different kingdom, one more and more under the lordship of God as known in Jesus, revealed to them on a starry night as Messiah, Lord, and Savior.
"Or are we among those who hear the story of Jesus, but aren't sure what to make of what we hear? No doubt there were many in this category who heard Jesus during his lifetime. Is this who we are?
"We are meant to be changed by Advent and Christmas. This is the sacramental purpose of this season of the Christian liturgical year."
