Austrian Christmas markets have deployed detectives to dress up as Baby Jesus when looking out for shoplifters. It is offensive to me as a Catholic. Why is Baby Jesus particularly chosen for this assignment?
Baby Jesus is supposed to evoke love in hearts. He is not someone who looks out for wrongdoers. In the Austrian tradition, He is the bringer of gifts. What gift is He bringing with such an assignment? Is it the gift of fear? Granted, the fear is struck into hearts of thieves; a righteous fear, but this is contrary to His true nature. He is not God the Father.
I agree with the criticism of the church officials.
