When I arrived at Midnight Mass, from the very beginning I steeped myself in deep recollection, during which time I saw the stable of Bethlehem filled with great radiance. The Blessed Virgin, all lost in the deepest of love, was wrapping Jesus in swaddling clothes, but Saint Joseph was still asleep. Only after the Mother of God put Jesus in the manger, did the light of God awaken Joseph, who was also praying. But after a while, I was left alone with the Infant Jesus who stretched out His little hands to me, and I understood that I was to take Him in my arms. Jesus pressed His head against my heart and gave me to know, by His profound gaze, how good He found it to be next to my heart. At that moment Jesus disappeared and the bell was ringing for Holy Communion. - Diary of St. Faustina, 1442
The four long weeks of Advent, full of expectation and longing, seem so fleeting as we gaze with wonder on the newborn Jesus. How beautiful He is! And how content He is to be by your heart for He knows that He is at home there.
As you hold Jesus in your hearts today, thank Him for coming, thank Him for the greatest gift of Himself. Love Him. Let this Christmas Season be an occasion for a cry to arise in your heart, "Thank you, Jesus! Thank you, my Joy and my Hope!"
The Congregation of Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary wish a merry and blessed Christmas to all!
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