Celebrate the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ – A Joyous Orthodox Icon of Faith
Today, we celebrate the glorious Nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ, a central feast in the Orthodox Church that reveals the profound mystery of His incarnation. This holy day commemorates the divine humility and love demonstrated in Christ's birth, marking the beginning of God's redemptive plan for humanity and bringing salvation to the world.
The miraculous birth of Christ, foretold by the Prophets, took place during the reign of Herod the Great in Judea. Herod, a ruler appointed by the Roman emperors, governed tyrannically over the Jewish people. At this time, the tribe of Judah, once a leading power, had lost its sovereignty and authority.
When the nine months of the Theotokos’ conception were complete, a decree from Caesar Augustus called for a census. Joseph the Betrothed and the Most Holy Theotokos traveled to Bethlehem to be registered. However, due to the influx of people, there was no room for them in the inn. They found refuge in a humble cave near Bethlehem, typically used as a stable for livestock.
In this humble setting, the Theotokos gave birth to Christ. She swaddled the Infant and laid Him in a manger, a feeding trough for animals, symbolizing His lowly yet profound entrance into the world. Tradition teaches us that Christ lay between an ox and a donkey, fulfilling prophetic words:
- “Between two living creatures shalt Thou be known” (Habakkuk 3:2)
- “The ox knoweth his owner, and the donkey his master’s crib” (Isaiah 1:3).
Nearby, shepherds tending their flocks were visited by an angel who proclaimed the joyous news of the Messiah's birth. Filled with awe, they rushed to the stable, where they glorified and worshiped the Newborn King. Soon after, the Magi, or Wise Men from the East, followed a star to Bethlehem. They presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, signifying Christ's kingship, divinity, and future sacrifice.
Let us rejoice: Christ is born! Glorify Him! ☦️🙏