Patriarch Daniel of Romania presided over the Divine Liturgy on Wednesday, the Feast of the Nativity, at the Patriarchal Cathedral. He emphasized that Jesus sanctifies the world as a gift from God to humanity through His coming into the world.
The Patriarch highlighted the humble obedience of Jesus to God the Father, stating that God willingly chose to humble Himself to elevate humanity, despite His glory.
He further explained that the Feast of the Nativity demonstrates God’s willingness to humble Himself by being born in a humble shelter, emphasizing the purpose of His incarnation as the salvation of humanity through perfect obedience.
Significance of Christ’s Humility
Patriarch Daniel elaborated on the purpose of Christ’s humility, which was to elevate humanity and restore communion between humanity and God through His obedience, leading to His exaltation through Resurrection and Ascension.
He emphasized, “Jesus Christ, the Eternal One, became man and obediently sacrificed Himself, leading to His exaltation and the universal acknowledgment of His lordship.”
Offerings to the Infant Jesus
The Patriarch discussed the gifts brought by the Magi to the Infant Jesus, symbolizing His kingship, divinity, and incorruptibility.
He encouraged offering the true Orthodox faith as gold, prayers as frankincense, and a pure, charitable life as myrrh to the Infant Jesus in our daily lives.
Photo Credit: Basilica.ro / Raluca Ene