religion, christmas, painting, religious, nativity, art, illustration, iconography, mural, mary, jesus, christianity, tapestry, cyprus, mythology, birth, ayia napa, nativity scene, prophet elias, ancient history, christmas nativity
Icon of the Nativity. Public Domain

Opening Prayer: Jesus, Our Treasure by Ven. Bruno Lanteri

O, Jesus, you descended in the fullness of time from the royal throne; O you who are most desired of all. You came from the height of heaven to visit us, and we are overwhelmed with joy, for as soon as the eternal Father had seen you born in our flesh, he made the angels proclaim peace and grace to all of good will. Freeing us from all misery, the Father gave us his kingdom and filled us with all your good. Make our hearts open and able to hold so great a treasure. Amen.

Fruit of the Spirit: Charity

Scripture: Colossians 3:14
And above all these [virtues] put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.

Action for the Day: Whether opening gifts or eating dinner or visiting with family and friends, love should be the motivation for everything on this day. The First Noel was held in a cave. Whatever our circumstances we have received God’s greatest gift: his Son. As God has given himself to us, give yourself to others today in the Spirit of Charity.