Search
-
December 28, 2022If Rachel lived in our generation, she may not be crying for her children. The reason for her lack of tears would not, for the most part, be insensitivity. Rather Rachel would not be weeping because it is quite possible that she, like many women today, would not have any children. The birthrate throughout most of the world has steadily declined over the last generation, much below what is required for replacement. African and some Muslim countries are generally exceptions to this rule.
The situation is as tragic as it is dire. The death of children jeopardizes families, faith traditions, and cultures. When couples have children, they make sacrifices which serve as a binding force keeping families together. Also, pursuing material success and enjoyment rather than raising a family, people are less likely to turn to God regularly. Not only religion but other aspects of culture like national customs will erode as populations shift.
At Christmas we celebrate the birth of a child. Jesus was as special a child as one can be. Among so much else, he embodies God’s affirmation of humanity as well human hope for the future. His birth relays a message of joy and love that should resound in the births of many children to committed couples.
