Christmas is a time for merriment and spreading love and joy. The festive season is celebrated in observance of the birth of Jesus Christ who is the Prince of Peace. His birth was announced in the Old Testament “For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). But unfortunately today’s world is in turmoil. The war declared by Russia against Ukraine seems unending. In Gaza, air-raids by Israel are being carried out in civilian-occupied areas which has resulted in huge casualties of civilians, especially children. Back home in Manipur, atrocities are being carried out against a particular section of the society. Over a decade of war in Syria has left the country on the brink of economic collapse. Conflict in neighbouring Lebanon has further increased poverty. Currently, the crisis in Yemen is deepening as an eight-year conflict between armed groups and government forces remains unresolved. This Christmas season let us pray for peace in the world, an end to conflicts and a healing touch for countries in turmoil.
