January 10th
Their Arrival at Bethlehem
Their Arrival at Bethlehem
When the Wise Men had obtained the information
they needed, they wasted no further time at
Jerusalem, but turned their steps towards the village
of Bethlehem. Their faith was being very
sorely tried. The star had disappeared; and the
inhabitants of Jerusalem, instead of sharing their
eagerness to find the new-born King, seemed to be
either indifferent or positively hostile to the idea of
His presence in their midst. So Jesus in the
Blessed Sacrament lies waiting in the Tabernacle
for a visit from those whom He loves. They have
no longing after Him, no desire for His company.
Only a few faithful souls go to pay their court to
Him. Am I one of them?
Scarce had they quitted the city when the star appeared again to their joyful eyes. There it is; there is no mistaking it. God has not deserted us! He is still guiding us, and we shall find Him whom we seek. No wonder that they rejoiced with great joy. So to those who have persevered amid doubt and darkness God soon restores the light of His presence. Courage, faint heart, the star will soon reappear.
At length the star, instead of moving above them in the heavens, came nearer to earth, and settled over the humble dwelling-place where Jesus and His Mother abode. What! the King of the Jews in that poverty-stricken shed? Yes, so it is; Christ scorns the gilded palace, and loves the humble hut. There He is at home; thither He invites His friends to come and see how He dwells with the poor and humble of heart.
Scarce had they quitted the city when the star appeared again to their joyful eyes. There it is; there is no mistaking it. God has not deserted us! He is still guiding us, and we shall find Him whom we seek. No wonder that they rejoiced with great joy. So to those who have persevered amid doubt and darkness God soon restores the light of His presence. Courage, faint heart, the star will soon reappear.
At length the star, instead of moving above them in the heavens, came nearer to earth, and settled over the humble dwelling-place where Jesus and His Mother abode. What! the King of the Jews in that poverty-stricken shed? Yes, so it is; Christ scorns the gilded palace, and loves the humble hut. There He is at home; thither He invites His friends to come and see how He dwells with the poor and humble of heart.