It is not just what you know that is most important, but who you know. This is the essence of Christianity. At the beginning of the Christian missionary enterprise the Church had to decide what was most important for converts to be accepted as Christians. Some believers belonged to the party of the Pharisees. They felt that all new believers should be circumcised and required to follow the law of Moses.

We also live in a society where we have accepted a social contract to share responsibility for those who are disabled, or disadvantaged by factors beyond their control. We voluntarily join together to promote and support programs, charities, sports teams, political parties, and events that interest us and in which we can participate. The higher degree of commitment we feel translates into the greater support we give.

But something happened to him. He began to think about himself in relation to the universe, eternity, and his fellow men and women in ways that he never had before. He pondered his way to a respect for faith, and belief in God. Not only that but he began to think about Jesus. He had always scorned his ideas, especially forgiveness. He thought of Jesus as a wimp in a callused world that knew better to take care of itself than he did.

The Bible is full of praise and thanksgiving. Biblical religion is a religion of rejoicing, of music and son. "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" (Philippians 4:4) It is noteworthy that Christianity has produced so much music. Christmas, in particular, is the season for so much beautiful music as we celebrate the coming of the Messiah and the hope he brings. The message of Jesus is called Gospel: good news. That is what Mary sings about.