Rome, 2019
Dear Sisters, Associates and Friends,
Joseph and Mary went from the city of Nazareth in Galilee, to the city of David called Bethlehem. While there, Mary gave birth to her firstborn son. She swaddled him, and laid him in the manger, for there was no room for them in the inn. (Luke 2, 4-7)
In Bethlehem, which means "house of bread", God is born in a manger because there was no place for them "in the inn”. In this city there was plenty, God comes to us wrapped in cloths, small, poor, helpless, and simple. Those who “have no room”, those who have walked like Joseph and Mary, are the first to welcome Jesus. It is the shepherds, uneducated speakers, who, after seeing Jesus, proclaimed His birth, so that "all who heard them were amazed by what they told”. (Luke 2:18)
It is there, in Bethlehem, despite the lack of hospitality, of so much selfishness, of so many "no’s" received, that God says "yes” to being part of the human experience. Though born in a manger, Jesus teaches us that love, charity and simplicity are values that we must preserve. He shows us that we don\�t need many things to live well.
Today, worldwide, we come across many people knocking at doors, looking for a place, looking to come "inside". They are not just looking for shelter, but rather for authentic and warm hospitality, a relationship that touches both the hostess and the guest.
What can we do to embrace a simpler life? This Christmas, how can we overcome selfishness, barriers, fear of risking and be more welcoming of Christ who wishes to be born "within my home”?
May we also "go to Bethlehem" on Christmas Eve, to meet the Child Jesus, Emmanuel God with us, and welcome life in its fullness.
Wishing you a Blessed Christmas.
S. Sally
S. Ieda
S. Mariaelena
S. Philomina
