‘Why was Jesus born?’

by Gwen Herat

Chilaw Bishop, His Lordship, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Valence Mendis brushing aside his usual oratory prowess, spoke in simple and beautiful, lyrical English and Sinhala on the significance of the birth of Jesus Christ.

He was the chief guest at the John Paul II Institution for Higher Education in the Dioceses of Chilaw at the Nativity and carol service.

His Lordship the Rt Rev Dr Valence Mendis

Speaking on the theme ‘Why was Jesus Christ born?’, he said Jesus Christ was the light of the world from the moment he was born in a lowly manger and brought with Him the light to illuminate the world to cast aside the sinful lives we lead. He made it clear how we have lost the spirituality of the event and emphasised its importance as we all celebrate this wondrous and joyful event.

'But’ he said ‘it ends up like the last flicker in the candle as it goes down . This should not be so; No doubt Christmas brings us all together and wipe away many misunderstandings which we may have had and this spirit must continue. Then and then only will Christmas be the forerunner to the great sacrifice he will follow up with to lay down his life for us'.

Amidst the joy, it was a moving statement what held the rapt attention. Quoting the Bible, he said ‘Jesus spoke to the Pharisees again - I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will have the light of life and will never walk in darkness’ John 8 - 12, he said ‘Why do people go astray? Why do nations rise against another... why do we lose our spirituality? It is all because of human greed for money and power. However, if we are courageous enough to look upon our Saviour to direct us on the right path, our world will be a better place to livein. We are happy at His birth, but our happiness msut be forcussed on the mission of His birth.

Since our words reflect the condition of our hearts, what we say and do provide the basis for judgement; However, I say continue to love your enemies though it will be trying, but once you make up your mind to do so, Jesus Christ's sacrifice would not have been in vain. We must not drive those nails harder on to the cross and to do that, we must look at his birth compassionately; His Lordships aid.

'Whoever believes in me, believes in me should not remains in darkness’ (John 12 - 44), the Shepherd of our flock said.

The Rector of the JPIHE thanked His Lordship who had braved the extreme weather that lashed Chilaw on this particular day to share the joy and love of these youngsters who had eagerly awaited him. Rector, Neville Coonghe highlighted the JPIHE's study course next year's with additional subjects to further strengthen their syllabus.