So this is Christmas. Again, I spend it far away from home. This year it is a wonderfully warm and sunny Puglia, the ‘heel’ of the Italian peninsula. I’ve recently transferred from Oria to Polignano a Mare. It is located at the seaside with the spectacular views over the cliff.
Similarly to my last year experience, I am grateful for being away from the normal Christmas routine. Just like during the travel around the world, also this year I participated each Sunday mass of the Advent in a different parish. Not only it was an illuminating experience but also showed me again the richness of the catholic church.
Being out of the heavily commercialized Christmas atmosphere, I have time to think about the most important thing: the birth of baby Jesus. Instead of the ordinary Christmas wishes, I am sharing this powerful quote from Luke’s gospel.
To all, who feel down and need to regain their hope.
“The people walking in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of deep darkness
a light has dawned.
You have enlarged the nation
and increased their joy;
they rejoice before you
as people rejoice at the harvest,
as warriors rejoice
when dividing the plunder.
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the greatness of his government and peace
there will be no end.
He will reign on David’s throne
and over his kingdom,
establishing and upholding it
with justice and righteousness
from that time on and forever.
The zeal of the Lord Almighty
will accomplish this.“
/Isaiah, 9, 1-4, 6-7/
Oh, and yes, just like every year I’m sharing below here my favourite Christmas Story
(thanks to St. Paul’s parish in Auckland, New Zealand).
