There are certain messages from the story of Christmas that are applicable to all Freemasons, not just those who celebrate a certain birth on December 25th each year. Many Christians feel that our benevolent Lord gave his greatest gift to mankind and that Gift’s birth is marked on Christmas Day. With that celebration, the spirit of giving is in season and outlined in our Masonic ceremonies. The new Entered Apprentice is reminded in the northeast corner of the lodge of Charity and to practice it whenever possible, to be always ready to assist a worthy Brother and his family. We are taught as Masons, while passing through this mortal life, we are to do abundant good to our fellow creatures on earth. We are reminded, no matter what our religious beliefs may be, to follow those universal tenets of the Craft – Faith, Hope and Charity. Doing so should bring satisfaction to you at this time of year.
In the Scottish tradition, Christmas and the birth of Jesus are not a time of joyous celebration but a time of reflection on the sacrifice that is to come with the crucifixion on Easter. Just as we in Masonry are eventually led to the sacrifice of our Grand Master, Hiram Abiff. And with this sacrifice of our Lord the greatest gift of salvation for all humankind is received.
We look to the New year where things can be better. During this season whether we are celebrating the Scottish tradition, Christian Nativity, or the Jewish Hannukah with its lights and gifts and the story of peace. Or the Hindu Diwali with its festival of sweets and toy gifts. If anything, out of all these celebrations, the pleasure of seeing a child’s face transfixed with wonder and delight at a minimum should spark that virtue instilled in us and ignite that belief that there are more important things like goodness and hope. Hope for the future to believe that no matter what mankind believes, we can reaffirm that people are basically good and can develop into loving, caring, helpful and supporting friends to each other. As Christian Knights, we should do all in our power to foster this progression. Sir Knights do not look only to the future where things can be better but see it as our role to help build that future.
On behalf of Lady Jessica and our family, Bless you and your families this wonderous season! Merry Christmas and have a Happy New Year.