“In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that
all the world should be enrolled. This was the first enrollment, when Quirinius
was governor of Syria. And all went to be enrolled, each to his own city. And
Joseph also went up form Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the
city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and
lineage of David, to be enrolled with Mary his betrothed, who was with child.
And while they were there, the time came for her to be delivered. And she gave
birth to her first-born son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths, and laid him
in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.” (Luke 2:1-7)
“Oh
Christians, how varied and numerous are the teachings that depart from the
grotto of Bethlehem! Oh, how the heart should burn with love for Him who very
affectionately became man for us. We should have a burning desire to lead the
world to this humble grotto, refuge of the King of Kings, greater than any
royal palace of human beings, because it was God’s home and throne! Let us ask
the Divine Child to cloth us with humility because only by this virtue can we
enjoy this mystery which is so full of divine affection. By means of the angels
Jesus calls the poor and simple shepherds in order to manifest himself to them.
He called the learned men by means of their science and all of them, moved by
his inner grace, hastened to adore Him. He calls all of us by divine
inspiration, and communicates with us by means of His grace.” (Advent and Christmas: Wisdom from Padre Pio, p. 76,80)
Come, Lord Jesus!
