During these first two weeks of December, we are receiving lots of Christmas cards. Of course, many show photographs of the family sending the card. But others feature portraits of the holy family. A typical one shows the holy family in a peaceful stable surrounded by adoring shepherds and wise men. The entire scene is bathed in the heavenly light from a special star. Everything is so tranquil.

This picture is reinforced by the songs we sing this time of year, like “Silent night, holy night, all is calm, all is bright. Round yon virgin mother and child, holy infant, so tender and mild, sleep in heavenly peace, sleep in heavenly peace.”

All of these images suggest peace and tranquility, but the fact is that the world into which Jesus was born was neither calm nor peaceful. It was hostile …