On Christmas eve, Rev. Joseph Kassab, Head of the Supreme Council of the Evangelical Community in Syria and Lebanon, delivered a message, saying: “As we celebrate Christmas this year, our countries, Syria and Lebanon, are undergoing significant transformations.” He noted that “change, though often necessary, comes with challenges, especially when its outcomes remain uncertain,” pointing out that it demands faith, patience, and openness.

He added that “the birth of Jesus marked a pivotal shift in understanding divinity. In the humility of a manger, God chose to dwell among us, entering a Jewish religious context that viewed God as distant and engaging only through intermediaries. Yet, the birth of Christ revealed a God who does not remain far from our broken world or our suffering. Instead, God is born into weakness, in a world rife with violence and oppression, bringing a message of peace and hope.”

Rev. Kassab quoted the verse from the Gospel: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward all people,” noting that these angelic words remind us that the peace of God is not imposed by power or violence but begins in humility, like a child needing care and attention to grow in wisdom and grace.

He then addressed the transformational changes in Syria and Lebanon, saying, “We recognize this process as a seed full of potential, requiring care and dedication to yield positive results.” He acknowledged that change might be met with fear, as seen in Herod’s reaction to Christ’s birth. Yet, he pointed out, “We find hope in the shepherds and Magi, who responded with joy, worship, and generosity.”

Rev. Kassab also cited what the Apostle Paul wrote to oppressed communities: “For He Himself is our peace.” He explained that the peace of Christ is not merely the absence of conflict but the restoration of humanity—a peace that reconciles us with God, one another, and creation. “Though this peace may feel distant, the birth of Christ assures us that divine peace begins in the smallest of places and grows to transform the world,” he said.

Reflecting on lands marked by suffering and war, Rev. Kassab highlighted that “the incarnation of Christ expresses God’s solidarity with the brokenhearted.” He addressed the people of Syria and Lebanon, saying, “God sees your pain, hears your cries, and walks with you in your struggles. The manger is not far from the ruins of your homes; the cries of the infant Jesus reflect the cries of your children. Yet, in the fragility of that child lies a hope that the powers of the world cannot extinguish.”

Rev. Kassab concluded his message by urging that this occasion should serve as a source of renewed courage amid change. He stressed the importance of remembering that we are called to be a light shining in the darkness, even if the darkness does not comprehend it. He prayed, “May God’s Spirit strengthen you, and may the message of the angels to the shepherds echo in your hearts: ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward all people.’”

Christ is born! Hallelujah!