Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Nativity Sermon ~ St. Isaac the Syrian

Nativity Sermon
St. Isaac the Syrian ~ d.700 AD

This Christmas night bestowed peace on the whole world;
So let no one threaten;
This is the night of the Most Gentle One -
Let no one be cruel;
This is the night of the Humble One -
Let no one be proud.
Now is the day of joy -
Let us not revenge;
Now is the day of Good Will -
Let us not be mean.
In this Day of Peace -
Let us not be conquered by anger.
Today the Bountiful impoverished Himself for our sake;
So, rich one, invite the poor to your table.
Today we receive a Gift for which we did not ask;
So let us give alms to those who implore and beg us.
This present Day cast open the heavenly doors to our prayers;
Let us open our door to those who ask our forgiveness.
Today the DIVINE BEING took upon Himself the seal of our humanity,
In order for humanity to be decorated by the Seal of DIVINITY.

  • Holy Transfiguration Publications: books by Fr John Brian
  • 1 Comments:

    Anonymous Anonymous said...

    A note sent by mail 12/26/08

    "We LOVED the midnight mass, the incense, the chanting and singing, the gorgeous little church and the spirituality and warmth that is so hard to find in today's larger churches. We hope to attend services in the future months to come (whenever my back permits!). We are truly grateful to have had such a rich and rewarding experience. Thank you all."
    From Nandini

    (enclosed with the note was a check to the mission - thanks be to God for all good that comes from our mission efforts)

    3:39 AM  

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