Post Epiphany meditation. As dawn was breaking in the stable of Bethlehem, the first rays of the gentle white light fell upon the Blessed Virgin Mary as she hovered over the crib of Jesus. She was tending to Him, and as she lifted Him from the crib, the golden dawn appeared upon the face of Jesus. The stable was now brightly lit, but the shadow of Joseph fell upon me as he began to sweep and clean the sacred area around Jesus and Mary. He motioned to me to follow him outside to gather wood to rekindle the fire. As we departed, Mother Mary was lovingly tending to her baby boy, preparing to nurse him while we away. Outside it was still cold as we scurried to collect wood. There were other animals in the stable, and yet a serene peace reigned among them. I could not avoid reflecting how such a profound peace would have settled upon a Bethlehem family if they had opened their hearts and door to the virgin mother to give birth! Such a family would be blessed until the end of time for hosting the Holy Family. We soon returned with the wood to set the failing fire ablaze. The Blessed Mother prepared a delicious breakfast, and even Josephs little dog (me) got more than scraps. St. Joseph then led the traditional Jewish morning prayers, his deep masculine voice echoed in the chamber as it lifted our souls to God. Yet God was here too, lying in a manger. As we finished praying, Joseph prostrated himself before his infant son, and I too fell down in adoration. All were wrapt in silent contemplation as the Three Magi appeared at the door. Joseph motioned for them to come in, and they, once again, fell down in silent adoration beside us. Finally, Joseph rose and we with him. The Magi had no more gifts to give except their whole lives which they pledged to the newborn King of Kings. I silently consented to their greatest gift of total consecration, and yet what did I have to offer? They were wise and learned men who had risked all to follow a star to Bethlehem. They would return to their nations to illuminate them with the light of Faith, like living stars pointing to Jesus . Once more, Joseph led us in prayer which concluded with all of us kneeling before the Eternal Word made man. The Magi then leaned forward to caress the CHRIST Child as He lifted His right hand to give them a final blessing. The power of His blessing would sustain these great men until death in their historic mission to the Gentiles. I prayed for them with s holy envy, and yet I would be blessed by Him every day. Joseph escorted them to the door and helped them saddle up. Then we turned towards Josephs mule to saddle him for Mary and Jesus. The Magi had found a kind family in Bethlehem to host the Holy Family, and there would be even room there for Josephs little dog!
Posted on: Wed, 07 Jan 2015 18:10:22 +0000
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