UPDATE: As the holiday season unfolds, an urgent message resonates: the traditional Christmas story calls for compassion and moral action. Gary Horton, chairman of the College of the Canyons Foundation, emphasizes the need for reflection on what “goodwill” truly demands from us, especially in light of current societal challenges.
The Christmas narrative is not merely a sentimental tale. It starkly portrays the plight of vulnerable individuals facing oppressive power—an echo that is painfully relevant today. In his latest commentary, Horton highlights the courage of Joseph, who fled to Egypt with Mary and the infant Jesus to escape the tyrannical edict of Herod, who ordered the murder of all male children under two. This historical account serves as a powerful reminder of the plight of refugees and those caught in bureaucratic cruelty today.
Horton draws parallels between the ancient story and the contemporary landscape, where approximately 40 countries face travel bans into the United States. These sweeping policies result in families torn apart—spouses separated, children growing up without one parent. “The consequences are not theoretical,” Horton states, reflecting on his own family member’s inability to reunite with his Iranian wife, underscoring the real human suffering caused by such policies.
The urgency of Horton’s message highlights the need for a cultural shift. He urges society to reject the normalization of insult and greed, promoting instead humility and kindness. “Culture follows leadership,” Horton argues, calling for leaders to embody moral conviction and action during this holiday season.
As the angels proclaimed peace on Earth to “men of good will,” Horton stresses that true peace is contingent upon our willingness to act with compassion and empathy. “It demands that we see strangers as human beings rather than threats,” he asserts.
The Christmas story asks us to grow, challenging us to embody moral principles in our actions. Horton reminds us that moral conviction without action is empty, and action without moral grounding is dangerous. This call to action is not merely about law and security; it’s about fostering a society that reflects goodwill through our choices and behavior.
As we navigate this holiday season, let the lessons of the Christmas story inspire a collective effort to support those in need and embrace the humanity in one another. May we move forward with grace, kindness, and wisdom—essential qualities in a world that often seems devoid of them.
Horton’s reflection serves as a poignant reminder that the spirit of Christmas is not just a seasonal sentiment but a call to genuine action and compassion. As we celebrate, let us commit to becoming “men and women of good will,” ensuring that our society reflects the values we hold dear.
