2005 December 10
 

Nativity Scene ”“ My viewpoint

 
The Nativity refers to the birth of Jesus in the city of   Bethlehem. The baby Jesus was born into a manger. The story and circumstance of   the birth is well known in the Christian faith .
 
During the Christmas season, many places around the world have a long-standing tradition of displaying manger scenes, or crèches, that depict the birth of Jesus. Every Christmas season many people pull out the nativity scenes for annual display.
 
Here in Deep River. I have noted some fabulous outdoor displays. The display of Nativity scene is a reflection of faith as well as reaffirmation of one”™s resolve to follow the teachings of Lord Jesus.  
As I had mentioned in my earlier writing that the birth of Lord Jesus signifies the manifestation of the very best of human traits of love, tolerance, inclusiveness, forbearance, mercy and forgiveness. These traits are universally cherished human values.
 
During his most famous Sermon of the Mount, Lord Jesus preached to his listeners to:
Ӣ Love your enemies.
Ӣ Do not judge others.
Ӣ Trust God.
”¢ Don’t be anxious about tomorrow.
”¢ Do unto others as you would have them do unto you (The “golden rule”).
 
This message does reflect and fortify the teachings of my own Hindu faith. I strongly submit that this teaching is a cornerstone of our civilizations.
 
It is important that in the modern world we do recognize that every birth is a gift of God and to be cherished. One does not know what genius or divine life has come amongst us who would bring scientific discovery, social uplift or divine messages for the happiness and peace.
 
In Hindu faith, Lord Krishna has clearly stated (in the Bhagwat Gita) that He will come back, from time to time, to rescue the world when society becomes unreligious, corrupt and downright evil. We see from time to time such manifestation occurring all over the world. Because of our ignorance or blind faith, some of us may not recognize these upstanding individuals amongst us.  
 
The Nativity scene celebrates a divine birth and emanates a subtle message of hope and a witness of divine growth, which changed the course of history.  
 
As long as the Nativity scene is not used for proselytizing, it is really a graphic and beautiful way of celebrating the famous birth.
 
Pravin Shah