Men's Rosary

THE BIRTH OF JESUS

“She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped Him in swaddling clothes and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” (Luke 2:7)

Fruit of the mystery: Poverty in spirit.

I have heard many speak of this in terms of material poverty. While living in material poverty is a way of life some are called to, I look at this mystery more in terms of what it says to me as one who lives in the world.

We are to be in the world but not of the world. So as a husband and father I am in the thick of making a living for myself and providing for my family. Contemplating this mystery, I am reminded of how Christ humbled himself to do the Father’s will.

He did not come in grandeur, pomp or circumstance. He came as a child. He came totally dependent in His Human nature on Our Blessed Mother. What an example this is for how to relate to God. We are totally dependent on Him and should not forget that. Despite our skills and successes, without God we are nothing.

I am also reminded of how I am to constantly offer God praise, thanksgiving and adoration. I envision Mary and Joseph looking upon Christ with great love and awe. They give us a perfect example of how to be with Christ in adoration and the importance of making a Holy Hour.

I am reminded in contemplating this mystery, of all that God has given me, and the gospel call to do for others. While I have many blessings and gifts, I owe it to God to share them with others in His name and for His will.

To me, poverty in spirit is realizing my place and submitting myself to God’s will. It is a call to unite my will with His to make His kingdom come and His will be done on earth. It is to be in the world but of God.