We certainly live in times that are not easy: wars, poverty, discrimination … But the events leading up to and including the birth of Jesus were also challenging for all those involved. However, there are two constant messages from God in the Infancy Narratives: “Don’t be afraid” and “Rejoice”. Mary, Joseph and the shepherds are just a few examples of those who received these extraordinary encouragements.
God is doing something wonderful: He is coming to earth in the fragile form of a little baby. // FEAR IS REPLACED BY JOY. //
Did Saint Anthony love Christmas? Of course! It was one of his favorite seasons and in his Sermon dedicated to the Nativity of the Lord he writes, “Christ is born! Let’s smile together, and rejoice together with the blessed Virgin Mary, because today is born for us the Savior who has rescued us from all evil.”
Life always has its challenges, and certainly we have no shortage of them nowadays. But we are not alone: THE SAVIOUR IS BORN FOR US! Therefore like Mary and Joseph, like the shepherds and like St Anthony too, let’s allow Jesus to overcome all our fears, replacing them with REAL JOY.
On behalf of all the friars of St Anthony’s Basilica in Padua, Italy: A VERY BLESSED CHRISTMAS! May the love of Christ fill your home and every day of your life.