Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein / 1891–1942)
As the days grow shorter and (in a normal winter) the first snowflakes begin to fall, the first Christmas thoughts timidly and quietly emerge. Just from the mere word Christmas, such enchantment emanates that scarcely any heart can resist it. Even those of other faiths and people without faith, for whom the ancient story of the Bethlehem child means nothing, are preparing for the holidays and considering how they might ignite a spark of joy here or there. It seems like a warm current of love has been passing through the whole land weeks and months in advance.
The feast of love and joy – that is the star to which all are directed in the first months of winter. – For a Christian, especially a Catholic, it is something even more. It leads him to the manger with the child who brings peace to the world. Countless endearing images present this to us through Christian art; old songs sing of it, echoing all the magic of childhood.
Those who live with the Church hear the bells calling to the Rorate, awakening in their hearts the holy desire; and for those who have access to the inexhaustible source of sacred liturgy, the great prophet of the Incarnation knocks day by day at the door with powerful words of challenge and promise: “Heaven, give your dew from above, and let the clouds rain down the just! The Lord is already near! Let us bow before Him! Come, Lord, and do not delay! – Jerusalem, rejoice with great joy, for your Savior is coming to you!” From December 17th to 24th, the great antiphons to the Magnificat call out more and more eagerly and urgently with their initial “O” (O Wisdom, O Most High, O Root of Jesse, O Key of David, O Beginning, O King of Nations) their “come and free us.” And it resounds ever more promisingly: “Behold, all is fulfilled” (on the last Sunday of Advent); and finally: “Today you will know that the Lord will come, and tomorrow you will see His glory.”
Yes, when the Christmas trees light up in the evening and gifts are exchanged, an unfulfilled desire emerges from the soul and seeks another shining light, until the bells ring out for midnight mass and the wonder of the Holy Night is renewed at altars, adorned with lights and flowers: “And the Word became flesh.” Now the moment of blessed fulfillment has come.
Excerpted from the book: Bl. Edith Stein, The Christmas Mystery
