Christmas Sparks Day 21 The Cradle of the City

As I was traveling by car through the bustling city of Kochi during the fading evening hours, I noticed a group of people sleeping peacefully beneath a metro pillar near Kaloor metro station. Partly in surprise and in part concern, I looked at them once more.

There they were, sleeping calmly… A little baby cuddled up with its mother, fast asleep. A short distance away, a man who seemed to be the father lay in deep slumber. Neither the cold of December, the continuous honking of vehicles, the flashing lights, nor the rumbling of the metro train passing above seemed to disturb them.

Were they resting after a day’s hard labor? Or had they accepted the grandeur of having nothing and chosen to share what little they had, finding peace in it? Or was it simply the attitude of ‘today is over, let’s face tomorrow when it comes’?

I don’t know…

There was no sign of worry on their faces — no fear of someone stealing their belongings, no anxiety about someone abducting the child, nor any concern for the safety of their savings.

But one thing became clear to me. The image reminded me of how, on that night in Bethlehem, the mental strength of St. Joseph must have been a source of courage for Mother Mary as she gave birth to the Saviour of the world in a humble manger.

We live under the shadow of God. Nothing around can disturb us. No matter what challenges we face in life, those who trust in the words of the Almighty will find support and protection in Him.

May we recognise the many ‘cradles of grass’ around us, visit them like the Wise Men, and offer them our gifts and support during this Christmas season.

Bilas Joseph