Dear friends,
As winter settles in and the landscape fades into muted tones, the colors of Christmas—red and green—shine with striking brightness. These colors are not mere decoration; they tell a story of creation, fall, and hope. Red, throughout Scripture, symbolizes life through blood and reminds us of our beginning. Adam—the first human—bears a name in Hebrew that can mean “man” or “red,” pointing to the precious life God breathed into him. Yet this same Adam also became the one through whom death entered the world. Green, on the other hand, is the color of living things—leaves, pastures, and flourishing trees—symbols of the life God intended for humanity and creation. But sin touched everything, bringing decay not only to human life but also to the natural world. Into this wounded creation, Jesus came as the One who restores life to humanity and promises renewal for all creation. Thus, the colors of Christmas invite us to remember both our fall and the vibrant hope offered in Christ.
This hope is beautifully echoed in the journey of the Magi—wise seekers who traveled from the East, guided by the mysterious light of a star. They left comfort and familiarity in pursuit of God’s revelation, carrying with them gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. When they arrived at the place where Jesus was found, Scripture tells us: “They fell down and worshipped him… And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed for their own country by another road.” (Matthew 2:11-12). Their encounter with the Christ child not only drew them in—it sent them back changed. They returned by “another road,” a symbol of transformation, renewal, and the new direction God inspires in all who genuinely seek Him.
This Christmas and New Year, the journey of the Magi invites us to ponder what it truly means to take “another road” in life. Their encounter with Jesus opened their hearts to a new direction—and so it can be for us. In today’s world, where countless voices compete for our attention, Christ calls us toward a way shaped by love, forgiveness, compassion, justice, brotherhood, hope, simplicity, acceptance, tolerance, inclusion, purity, and holiness. Choosing this different path means allowing the light of Christ to reorient our values, renew our relationships, and inspire choices that heal and bless.
As we celebrate the season, may its vibrant colors remind us of God’s enduring love and His promise to bring renewal into every part of our lives. May the journey of the Magi inspire us to step into the New Year with courage, openness, and a willingness to walk a path illuminated by Christ’s transforming grace.
Wishing each of you a blessed Christmas filled with deep joy, and a New Year guided by Christ’s radiant light, abundant hope, and everlasting peace.
May God bless you all.
Grace and Peace,
Premkumar Immanuel Clement
