It’s about coming down from the high horse of privilege and taking a walk alongside the struggling communities - Reverend Vaai

The Principal of the Pacific Theological College in Suva, Professor Reverend Upolu Luma Vaai says it is about coming down from the high horse of privilege, taking a walk alongside the struggling communities and looking at things from the perspective of those who struggle in the dirt.

He says as we enjoy Christmas this year, we should be reminded that many do not have access to basic food, water and happiness.

Vaai says a Christmas story is one that affirms the accessibility and availability of God to everyone but unfortunately, this year alone, accessibility of many to God’s basic gifts of life and securities was challenging.

Vaai says many have lost loved ones to the COVID-19 pandemic, sole breadwinners of families lost their jobs and some who could not feed their families resorted to committing suicide than to face the humiliation of not being able to provide.

He says many children became orphans overnight due to the pandemic and wars, women were abused and violated in their family homes where they should be safe and individuals were overwhelmed by loneliness.

Vaai says we need to reclaim the original spirit of Christmas found in the Manger for this season.

The Principal of the Pacific Theological College says the Manger smells, is full of dirt and is a neglected space however, it is where God chooses to be.

He says it is a symbol of divine accessibility and availability and demonstrates divine beauty in what is neglected.