as He afterwards rose from the monument which was closed upon Him. As the great master of humility, He Commences His lessons of humility to mankind. Contemplate the feelings of the Virgin at that moment. What sentiments of reverence towards her God and of love towards her Son did she feel! Observe with what affection she embraces Him; how she clothes Him, as far as her poverty and the circumstances would permit, and lays Him in the manger. See how she and St. Joseph adore Him, and give Him thanks, for coming into the world, and for choosing her for His mother and him for His reputed father. Join the holy company in their affections and adoration.
II. What joy existed in heaven upon this occasion! How pleased was the heavenly Father at this new sight; "When He introduceth the first-begotten into the world, He saith: And let all the angels of God adore Him." (Heb. i. 6.) Imagine you see the angels of heaven falling prostrate in adoration, saying, "Holy, holy, holy. Lord God of sabaoth, the heavens and the earth are full of the majesty of Thy glory." Rejoice, and adore your new-born Saviour.
III. On this occasion was verified the prediction of Isaias: "The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master's crib; but Israel hath not known Me, and My people hath not understood." (Is. i. 3.) These irrational animals, that were in the stable when Christ was born, seem to have been more sensible than were the Jews. Examine whether or not you be one of those Israelites who do not know your Lord when He has come amongst you. "He who saith He knoweth Him, and keepeth not His commandments, is a liar; and the truth is not in him." (1 John ii. 4.)
