BETHLEHEM LIGHTS UP FOR CHRISTMAS

Bethlehem; The tree on the wall

Prepared by Mazin Qumsiyeh, PhD

We just had the Christmas tree lighting in the Manger Square, Bethlehem and
it was beautiful. It was appropriate to reflect on challenges and
opportunities in the ongoing struggle. If we believe that Jesus brought the
message of peace, the tumult in his era seems remarkably similar  yo this
era of occupation, repression, religious zealotry, corrupt leaders etc.
Yet, 2014 could be summed up as the year in which the parameters of the
struggle where made much clearer. It is a struggle between the elite rich
who have increasingly pushed for more police and military to protect their
gains and suppress the 99.9% of the world that is suffering.  From Ferguson
to Gaza to Kobani, the struggle continues.

If Mary and Joseph arrived at Bethlehem today

In this year , we need to remember the tragedy that is Gaza, the tragedy
that is Jerusalem, the tragedy that is Palestine but we also reflect on
that hope that is like the story of resurrection seems to capture hearts
and minds of millions of people. Yes, we did suffer the incalculable loss
of thousands of Palestinians butchered this summer in Gaza. We remember
that despite the promises given by politicians, Gaza even became more
isolated and the noose tightened on the lives of 1.6 million human beings.
Egyptian and Israeli governments seems hell-bent on strangling any
remaining potential for normal life. The situation is dire and getting
worse daily. Thousands of common people did help and we sent some money and
some supplies but the situation demands more. The same is also true for
Jerusalem where Judaization efforts are accelerating (which includes ethnic
cleansing of native Palestinians and removing/threatening our religious,
cultural and historical infrastructure). Trigger happy soldiers and
settlers still kill Palestinians almost every other day with impunity.

Latuff’s spoof on Christmas in Bethlehem