Dear Minnehaha,

We live in a theistic world. Among us there are many different faith communities. Within most there are different perceptions of God—often so different that they seem mutually exclusive. So many versions of God show up that a neutral observer could reasonably ask—how can there be anything to this “God business?” So, where is the Christ in this?
We live in an agnostic world. Oh, many of us worship. Many, like we, belong to a faith community. And, sure, we spread God belief around with our slogans such as “God is Love.” But, in actuality, how many of us really practice our faith in a Higher Power? Apart from the conventions of faith—the works of goodness, worship, and fellowship we share, how many of us are true believers in the God who gives us life, offers total redemptive presence to and through us, and creates guidance throughout our days? Probably, not so many. And all around us our Western culture seems, frankly, unimpressed with God—especially at the core level of morality. So, where is the Christ in this?
We live in an atheistic world. Long ago leaders have cultivated the powers of science to debunk theism’s misconceptions and errors. Observant people can simply see that theism easily and often is used for tragically destructive purposes. The “God-belief” all to easily corrupts people into manipulation us. So, people reject God, reject religion, and seek other ways to love and grow. Where is Christ in this?
Christmas time we are, in effect, searching to connect with the Christ. Where, really, do we experience this Greater of Power? Certainly, there are amid all the Christmas music, pageantry and other festivities many contact points with this Power. Through it all, however, our sense of God often devolves into nostalgia. The holy may feel very sweet and somewhat sad. The Christmas story plays on our yearnings to be a better sort of people—more generous, more open to the Child-Spirit, inspired to awesome gentleness. But, the story confronts us with more. It is a message which neither theist or atheist may ignore for long. What kind of world are you living for? What Great Truth are you devoting your life to? The way to God—says Christmas—is the way to living for Peace. Not the sentimental peace of decorations and gift wrappings– but the God-gift itself. The Christ child brings to us and awakens in us: Power. Love Power. Power to live as a Peace-maker.

Shalom, Cooper