Thursday, January 17, 2013

Pilgrimage to the Holy Land - day 4

25 December 2012 - Christmas!

Up at 5am.  Celebrated Christmas Mass at Dawn just as light was coming into the sky.  Only the altar candles provided light until the sun arose and they were joined by a greater source of light.  I offered this Mass for all the people whom I've gotten to serve, who I am asked to serve now, and whom I will serve - pro populo.  At the consecration, I experienced holding the infant Body of Christ as He Incarnated Himself in our world, and stood at the foot of the Cross as His blood came pouring out for the forgiveness of sins.  Offering this all to the Father in the Power of Jesus' Resurrection for all mankind.  Thank you Jesus.

A nice Christmas celebration with Deacon Mark and breakfast.  I continued reading the Instruction to the liturgy of the hours.  The Benedictines at Loaves and Fishes were very kind and hospitable to us, allowing us to pray with them today.  I hope to be as attentive and welcoming as they are.

Stayed quiet most of the day, took a nap and a rosary walk to the waterfall as daylight fades from the sky.  Prayed for intentions here today, where Jesus called Peter, Andrew, James, and John to follow Him.  May we all notice Your subtle coming to us amidst the daily work of our lives.  May we be credible witnesses to the life Jesus gives us and calls us to so that others might believe in Him and not us.  Love alone is credible.  Love stirs up desire.

Fr. Hurley - Spend some time with Jesus today.  If you stay connected to the world, I guarantee you'll miss Him.  He is so subtle here.

Adoration - 
Remembering Fr. Jeremias "Let this day continue.  Jesus coming near to us, associating with us in the flesh.  Don't let it pass over and be gone."

Banquet - 
The Benedictines and the German young adult volunteers joined us for an awesome Christmas dinner.  Egg rolls, rice, meat, veggies of every sort, and dessert all in plenty.  We traded turns singing Christmas carols in our different languages, one Benedictine pulled out his accordian to add to the cheer.  It was a heartfelt time of beauty, joy, and sharing with friends as we sang of Christ's coming to us.  Un cor et un' anima sola.

Christmas morning goodies!

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