-
December 18, 2015
My Dear People of God,
“Immaculate Conception” by Clorinda Galdós Bell, a renowned practitioner of a traditional style of Peruvian painting known as the Cuzco School. A native of Cuzco, Peru, she currently lives in Powell, Tenn. More of her work can be viewed at www.facebook.com/clorysart.
In his decree inaugurating the Jubilee Year devoted to the theme of mercy, Pope Francis urges us to contemplate the face of Jesus in order to discover the mercy of God the Father made manifest.
In reflecting on this, the Holy Father speaks of the wonder of God’s mercy revealed in the mystery of the Incarnation. We rejoice in the love of God echoed in the life of our Lord, beginning with His birth.
The example of Mary, the Lord’s mother, teaches us how to receive this great gift of mercy revealed in and through Jesus. “She reflected upon these things in her heart.”
The shepherds and wise men demonstrate a willingness to seek out the one proclaimed by angels and heralded by a star. They came to behold the wonder of God incarnate.
During this Christmas season we continue to celebrate the Father’s loving mercy as revealed to us in the Word Incarnate, Jesus Christ. Guided by His spirit, we pray for the grace not only to seek God’s mercy in our lives, but to be instruments of that loving mercy for one another.
May God’s gift of mercy bring us joy and peace at Christmas and all year through.
Wishing you every blessing, I am
Sincerely in Christ,
Most Reverend David R. Choby
Bishop of Nashville