The Ethics of Christmas

Rublev, Nativity Icon, Isaac the Syrian, Christmas, Ethics
Icon of the Nativity (detail) by Rublev
Rublev, Nativity Icon, Isaac the Syrian, Christmas, Ethics
Icon of the Nativity (detail) by Andrei Rublev (Public Domain, Wikimedia Commons)

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.

– St. Isaac the Syrian (7th century), Nativity Sermon


Related Post
: He and Us – Thoughts On the Nativity from St. Ambrose

4 comments

  1. May God bless and keep you in his wonderous love, Mike. You have such a gift of always providing us with the perfect message for our lives and times. Thanks to God for the many blessings He gives us through your thoughtful messages and gentle spirit.

    Liked by 1 person

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