Homily: December 23, 2025 Tuesday of the Fourth week of Advent (Stories)

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 “All these matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea.”

I know how this works. I grew up in a hill country very much like Judea, long before the time of internet, wi-fi and cell phones. Only one house in our village had a telephone, yet somehow everyone knew what was happening in every family. News traveled fast and no one was ever left out of the details. Communication was efficient and effective, without technology.

And everyone shared quite freely about their joys and sorrows, ups and downs, happy stories, sad stories, all real, nothing fake.

I wonder if the youth of today can imagine that.

I am glad we still have these ways of personal communication in practice, especially with those who do not depend on cell phones. I love the little children of St. Ambrose whenever they come to me in excitement. Because they tell me everything that happened in their homes, even things I probably didn’t need to know! They are fast, and detailed. And often they return very soon with the latest updates!

They remind me of my childhood days; how real stories shape the life and work the heartbeat of the village.

There was one such story which spread through my village and remained fresh in my memory. A kindergarten boy named Abeesh, the eldest son of devout Hindu parents, was diagnosed with leukemia. Everyone knew about it. As his condition worsened, Catholic neighbors began encouraging the parents to pray to Jesus. His mother hesitated at first. Then one day, as she helplessly held her dying son in her arms, she cried out in desperation with all her heart: “Jesus, heal my son!”

Immediately she saw a bright light which drew her full attention. When she came to her senses, she found her son alive and active. Very, very soon afterwards, the whole village heard about her story. 

The whole family converted and embraced the Catholic faith. The mother has shared her testimony on many occasions. Although some had doubts, it is a fact that the boy has lived on well and grown up fine. The last time I saw him, he was working as an electrician, continuing his father’s trade. He is now a faithful, loving married man and a joyful Catholic.

Real people, real stories.

They shape faith.

They open hearts.

Christmas is exactly this. The journey to Bethlehem, the baby in the manger, the proclamation of the angels, the shepherds in adoration, the Magi’s worship. Real people, real stories.

Do you have your own faith story to share and spread around? Will you testify for Jesus? Will you be His witness?

This Christmas, let us share the good news of Jesus. Jesus is real. Our stories about Him will change lives. God is with us and still working wonders in us. Our stories can make a difference. Tell it and let it be discussed throughout  Des Moines.

Amen.


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