Angels triumphantly heralding the birth of Christ on the 9th day
On the 1st Simbang Gabi homily for 2018, Fr. James Gascon
stressed what it is to be a Christian as a "verb" rather than a noun,
giving importance to the doing rather than the word.
Fr. Mario Francisco on the 9th Simbang Gabi novena
highlighted the family coming home for Christmas. While there are problems in
some families such as betrayal, infidelity among others (bullying included),
the season of Christmas seeds hope bringing joy to every member particularly to
the elders.
A family built on God and not on power and possession is
foundational to joy. Mary visiting Elizabeth brought joy. The coming of Jesus
allows us to present to each other, aware of our own selves building the family
and eventually a community.
The Ateneo Chamber Singers interpreting Hark the Herald
Angels Sing gloriously and harmoniously highlighted well to the grandness of
joy particularly when the line “Hark the herald angels sing, glory to the new
born king!” was repeatedly sang setting up the festive mood after the preparation of Advent and the
deepening of the significance of Christmas.
Joy is infectious in Christmas manifested in the disposition of those
prepared for the coming and understanding the significance of Christ’ birth. During
the season, we give gift, prepare special meals, dress our best, treat and
greet everyone else through postcards, email, letters, in social media and
interpersonally cheerfully and courteously greet to draw out and give joy. Ultimately,
the core joy in Christmas is in giving love on Christmas day.
Maligayang Pasko!
Song references: I'll be home for Christmas by Bing Crosby. Give love
on Christmas day by Michael Jackson. Hark the herald angels sing composed by
Felix Mendelssohn
Joyful, all ye nations rise
Join the triumph of the skies
With angelic hosts proclaim:
"Christ is born in Bethlehem"
Hark! the herald angels sing:
"Glory to the newborn King!"
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