Every year, Holy Mother Church directs our attention toward the mystery of the Incarnation. It is impossible to put into words just how beautiful and strange this pivotal moment is: God, Creator of all things, is an infant lying in a manger. We should take a moment to rest in the wonder of it all.
But we probably should not rest for too long, because inherent in the Incarnation is an astounding call to holiness. St. Athanasius writes that “The Son of God became man so that man might become god.” But St. Athanasius never says that becoming god is easy work. Indeed, the mystery of the Incarnation demands a radical transformation of our whole lives.
If it is true that God has assumed our human nature, then our very nature has been redeemed— and we must begin to act like it! If it is true that God Himself experienced the joys and trials of daily life, then we must now recognize our own joys and trials as occasions for grace. And if it is true that God’s desire to be close to us was so great that He became man, then we are all the more compelled to strive to grow closer to God.
So, my brothers and sisters in Christ, there is much to do. But lest we give in to our doubts, we should turn again to the mystery of the Incarnation. Take heart! A God who is willing to become man so clearly loves us. Each of us, even in our brokenness, has a part to play His divine plan.
God’s triumph over our imperfection is no more true than in the call to the priesthood. As canons regular, we strive always to allow God’s light to shine through our work, our common life, and our prayer. Thanks be to God, He continues to bless us. On Christmas Eve, we had the joy of vesting fourteen new novices. These young men in priestly formation are answering God’s call to a total life of service to the Church. Their response is a powerful reminder that despite our flaws, God’s grace is ever at work in our community, drawing us closer to Him and using us to fulfill His will.
I am deeply grateful for your unwavering prayers and support throughout this year. Your generosity advances our mission and inspires us to work with ever greater courage and zeal. As God draws near to us, so too do you, through your faith and your kindness, draw us closer to the heart of Christ.
Continue to pray for all of us at the Abbey, priests and seminarians alike, as we continue to pray for you. May this Christmas be a time of renewal, peace, and joy for us all, as we continue to live the mystery of the Incarnation.
Merry Christmas and may God bless you.
