#incarnation — Public Fediverse posts

Quote of the day, 17 May: St. Elizabeth of the Trinity

When He first came into the world what did He say? “You no longer delight in holocausts; so I have assumed a body and I come, O God, to do Your will” [Heb 10:5–7].

During the thirty-three years of His life this will became so completely His daily bread, that at the moment of handing over His soul into His Father’s hands, He could say to Him: “All is accomplished” [Jn 19:30]; yes, all Your desires, all have been realized, that is why “I have glorified You on earth” [Jn 17:4].

When Jesus Christ spoke to His apostles of this food which they did not know, He explained to them “that it was to do the will of Him who sent Me” [Jn 4:34]. Also He could say: “I am never alone. He who sent Me is always with Me because I do always the things that are pleasing to Him” [Jn 8:29].

Let us lovingly eat this bread of the will of God. If sometimes His will is more crucifying, we can doubtless say with our adored Master: “Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass me by,” but we will add immediately: “Yet not as I will, but as You will” [Mt 26:39]; and in strength and serenity, with the divine Crucified, we will also climb our calvary singing in the depths of our hearts and raising a hymn of thanksgiving to the Father. For those who march on this way of sorrows are those “whom He foreknew and predestined to be conformed to the image of His divine Son” [Rom 8:29], the One crucified by love!

Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity

Heaven in Faith, Day 8, Second prayer

Elizabeth of the Trinity, S 2014, I Have Found God, The Complete Works of Elizabeth of the Trinity Volume 1: Major spiritual writings, translated from the French by Kane, A, ICS Publications, Washington DC.

Featured image: A detail from one of four photos taken by her brother-in-law Georges Chevignard on 22 December 1902, the day of her canonical examination; the exam took place days before her religious profession on Epiphany Sunday, 11 January 1903. Image credit: Discalced Carmelites (by permission)

En ce jour de Chandeleur, la foi chrétienne se dit comme une présence incarnée :
La Parole est devenue chair, elle a fait sa demeure parmi nous. (Jean 1,14)
Une lumière humble, proche, quotidienne.

#Chandeleur #ParoleFaiteChair #Incarnation #Spiritualité #Jean114 #lumiere

Quote of the day, 30 December: François de Sainte-Marie, OCD

If Christ and the Virgin unite souls closely to themselves, it is in order to continue their earthly mission until the end of time. Since they can no longer accomplish it by themselves, from on high they make use of Christians as “super-added humanity,” who complete in their own flesh what still remains to be fulfilled in the redemption of the world.

Jesus continues to be born, to grow, and to die in the course of history, according to the very rhythm of the liturgical year, which takes up and gives voice to all the aspirations, the sufferings, the joys, and all the love of his own. And the Virgin, beside her Son, continues her watch of love through the souls who are devoted to her.

While heaven and earth wear out like a garment, the attitudes she bears in her heart toward Christ do not grow old. They endure across the generations, retaining all their freshness. “May the soul of Mary be in each of us, to glorify the Lord within us; may the spirit of Mary be in each of us, to rejoice in God,” Saint Ambrose said long ago.

This presence of the Virgin within the soul has its demands. We come to resonate with her interior attitudes and to perceive her most delicate promptings only insofar as we have made ourselves wholly available to God and have let go of ourselves in the evangelical sense. For it is not a matter of adopting a role while clinging to our own self: we are called instead to be transformed in Christ by Love.

A true Marian devotion, therefore, has nothing sentimental or fictitious about it. It is terribly stripped down, as the Virgin herself was. It is not enough for us to speak; we must act. Above all, we must allow ourselves to be acted upon. The perfect abandonment by which the Virgin lived is what she asks of the souls she loves.

She often seems to say to us, as Christ said to Peter: “What I am doing you cannot understand now” (Jn 13:7). For she asks of us not so much understanding as a quiet assent. Perhaps even to impress upon us more deeply the truth that we are “unprofitable servants,” she may appear to draw us to herself and then leave us according to her will.

It is therefore through abandonment that we come to share in the deepest attitudes of our Mother, the “handmaid of the Lord,” who, by giving herself entirely to Love, received Love in its fullness and became among human beings its inexhaustible source.

François de Sainte-Marie, O.C.D.

Visage de la Vierge (Face of the Virgin)

Note: Father François de Sainte-Marie was a prolific French Discalced Carmelite author and editor of the mid-20th century. He is best known for his tireless efforts to publish the critical edition of the autobiographical manuscripts of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux in 1957, which we commonly refer to as Story of a Soul.

de Sainte-Marie, F 1948, Visage de la Vierge, translated from the French by Carmelite Quotes, Librairie du Carmel, Paris.

Translation from the French text is the blogger’s own work product and may not be reproduced without permission.

Featured image: Detail from the Virgin of the Annunciation, a sculpture carved from limestone in Paris ca. 1300-1310. Traces of paint can still be seen on the sculpture. The sculpture’s modest dimensions (16 11/16 × 11 5/8 × 7 3/8 in., 34 lb.) permit the delicate features of the sculpture to be clearly seen. Image credit: Metropolitan Museum of Art (Public domain).

#abandonment #FrançoisDeSainteMarie #incarnation #MarianDevotion #redemption #VirginMary

Quote of the day, 25 December: St. Edith Stein

We know not, and we should not ask before the time, where our earthly way will lead us. We know only this, that to those that love the Lord all things will work together to the good, and, further, that the ways by which the Saviour leads us point beyond this earth.

It is truly a marvellous exchange: the Creator of mankind, taking a body, gives us His Godhead. The Redeemer has come into the world to do this wonderful work. God became man, so that men might become children of God. One of us had broken the bond that made us God’s children; one of us had to tie it again and pay the ransom. This could not be done by one who came from the old, wild and diseased trunk; a new branch, healthy and noble, had to be grafted into it.

He became one of us, more than this, He became one with us. For this is the marvellous thing about the human race, that we are all one. If it were otherwise, if we were all autonomous individuals, living beside each other quite free and independent, the fall of the one could not have resulted in the fall of all. In that case, on the other hand, the ransom might have been paid for and imputed to us, but His justice could not have passed on to the sinners; no justification would have been possible.

But He came to be one mysterious Body with us: He our Head, we His members. If we place our hands into the hands of the divine Child, if we say our Yes to His Follow Me, then we are His, and the way is free for His divine Life to flow into us.

This is the beginning of eternal life in us. It is not yet the beatific vision in the light of glory; it is still the darkness of faith; but it is no longer of this world, it means living in the kingdom of God. This kingdom began on earth when the blessed Virgin spoke her “Be it unto me”, and she was its first handmaid.

And all those who have confessed the Child by word and deed before and after His birth, St. Joseph, St. Elizabeth with her son, and all those surrounding the crib, have entered the kingdom of God. The reign of the divine King showed itself to be different from what people had expected it to be when they read the Psalms and the Prophets. The Romans remained masters in the land; high priests and scribes continued to oppress the poor.

Those who belonged to the Lord bore their kingdom of heaven invisibly within them. Their earthly burden was not taken away from them; on the contrary, many another was added to it; but within them there was a winged power that made the yoke sweet and the burden light.

The same happens today with every child of God. The divine life that is kindled in the soul is the light that has come into the darkness, the miracle of the Holy Night. If we have it in us, we understand what is meant when men speak about it. For the others, everything that can be said of it is an incomprehensible stammering. The whole Gospel of St. John is such a stammering about the eternal light that is love and life.

God in us and we in Him, this is our share in God’s kingdom, which is founded on the Incarnation.

Saint Edith Stein

The Mystery of Christmas (1931 lecture), “Union With God”

Stein, E 1931, The mystery of Christmas: incarnation and humanity, translated from the German by Rucker, J, Darlington Carmel, Darlington UK.

Featured image: The Nativity With Saints, Ridolfo Ghirlandaio (Italian, 1483–1561), oil on wood panel painting ca. 1514. Image credit: Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (Public domain).

#Christmas #divineChild #incarnation #kingdomOfHeaven #StEdithStein

The Significance of the Manger: How Christ’s Humble Birth Shapes a Man’s Strength and Leadership

1,444 words, 8 minutes read time

I want to take you back to Bethlehem, the quiet town, the Roman census rolling through, the air thick with expectation and tension. Picture a young couple arriving late at night, streets bustling with shepherds, travelers, and the faint glimmer of torchlight flickering on stone walls. There is no royal palace, no grand fanfare, no ceremonial welcome. Instead, a stable—a place for animals—is their sanctuary. And in that lowly manger, wrapped in swaddling clothes, lies the King of kings.

This is the scene that defines humility at its most radical. The birth of Jesus wasn’t just a story to warm hearts at Christmas; it was the blueprint of God’s upside-down kingdom values, a blueprint for every man called to lead with strength, courage, and integrity. Humility, service, and courage in obscurity—these are not soft virtues; they are the hallmarks of true leadership.

In this study, we’ll explore three pillars emerging from the manger that shape a man’s character. First, humility before God: why the King chose the lowliest place to enter the world and what that means for us. Second, leadership through service: how Jesus’ life demonstrates strength under submission. Third, courage in obscurity: thriving faithfully when no one is watching. By the end, you won’t just see a story of a baby in a trough—you’ll understand a call to embody a life of resilient, humble strength.

Humility Before God: Lessons from the Manger

The Greek word used for “manger” in Luke 2:7 is phatnē, a simple feeding trough for animals. It’s not glamorous. It’s not the kind of place a man imagines for a king’s birth. And yet, this is where God chose to plant His Son. This choice wasn’t random; it was deliberate theology in action, showing that God values humility over pomp, service over status.

Bethlehem at the time was under Roman occupation. The Jews longed for a Messiah who would sweep in with armies and crowns, a conqueror to restore their pride and sovereignty. But God’s Messiah came quietly, unarmed, dependent, and vulnerable. The King who commands angels chose the lowliest of entry points, signaling that true power is often hidden under weakness.

For men today, humility before God is not about groveling or self-deprecation; it’s about recognizing our place in the grand scheme of life and aligning our strength under God’s authority. It’s about showing up as you are, stripped of pretense, ready to follow rather than dominate. Think of it as the foundation of a building: invisible but crucial. A man who refuses to kneel in humility may boast outward power, but without that grounding, the whole structure risks collapse.

Here’s a truth I’ve had to wrestle with personally: humility doesn’t mean you are weak. It means you are aware of what you can and cannot control, and you are willing to carry responsibility with integrity. It’s like showing up to the battlefield with nothing but a trusted blade—no armor, no pomp, just readiness to serve. That’s the heart of a man shaped by the manger.

Leadership Through Service: Strength in Submission

When you look at the manger, you see more than a scene of humility; you see a model of servant-leadership. Philippians 2:5–8 frames this perfectly: Christ, though in the form of God, did not grasp at status. He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant. This is leadership that wins not through intimidation but through example, commitment, and sacrifice.

Worldly power often equates leadership with control, title, or recognition. But God’s standard is different. True leadership is lifting others, absorbing the strain, making the hard choices without applause, and guiding people with a heart of service. For men, this applies across every arena—family, workplace, community. The strongest men I’ve known lead quietly, consistently, and sacrificially. They don’t need a throne; they need character.

Consider the metaphor of a yoke. A man’s strength is measured by how well he can bear the yoke—responsibilities, burdens, and trials—without complaint. Jesus’ birth in a lowly manger prefigures the ultimate act of leadership: carrying the cross for the world. In your own life, you may not face crucifixion, but every act of leadership is a chance to serve with courage, humility, and vision. This is the marrow of masculine strength.

And here’s the kicker: service-driven leadership doesn’t just bless others; it refines you. It teaches patience, self-control, and endurance. It forces you to operate in alignment with truth rather than ego. Jesus’ life started in a manger and ended on a cross, a testament that leadership is forged in quiet, humble service, not public accolades.

Courage in Obscurity: Faithful Work When No One’s Watching

There’s a raw courage in the manger that often gets overlooked. No one expected God to enter the world this way. No crowds, no coronation, no pomp. Just a couple of parents, some animals, and a feeding trough. The first Christmas is a story of working faithfully in obscurity, trusting God even when recognition is absent.

Life as a man of integrity often mirrors that scene. Most of the work that shapes character is unseen: the quiet discipline at the gym, the late nights working to provide for family, the decisions made when no one is watching. The courage to persist without immediate reward is exactly what the manger teaches.

Biblically, God frequently works through hidden, humble circumstances. Joseph, David, and even Paul had seasons where their faithfulness was invisible. Men are called to the same quiet bravery—faithfulness not measured by applause, but by steadfastness under pressure. Strength in obscurity is the kind that lasts, the kind that shapes generations.

A metaphor I’ve lived by: real men are forged in the grind. You don’t become steel in the spotlight; you become steel in the heat of daily struggle, in rooms no one sees, in choices no one notices. The manger tells us: God honors that kind of courage, and it’s the foundation of enduring manhood.

Conclusion

The manger is more than a Christmas story. It is a blueprint for men striving to embody humility, leadership, and courage. Christ’s birth calls us to a strength that is rooted in humility, a leadership measured by service, and a courage defined by faithfulness rather than recognition.

We’ve seen three pillars here: humility before God, leadership through service, and courage in obscurity. Each one challenges men to measure strength not by status or applause but by character, perseverance, and faithful obedience. The manger doesn’t just whisper; it calls us to build lives of lasting integrity.

So, ask yourself: Where are you seeking recognition instead of doing the work? Where are you carrying burdens without leaning into humility and service? Where is your courage tested in the quiet spaces of life? The wood of the manger still speaks. Let it teach you to be strong, faithful, and humble. Let it shape you into a man who leads not with ego, but with purpose and conviction.

If this message resonated, I invite you to join the conversation: leave a comment, share your reflections, or subscribe to continue growing as a man of faith, courage, and integrity. The path won’t be easy, but as the manger teaches, greatness in God’s kingdom begins in humility.

Call to Action

If this post sparked your creativity, don’t just scroll past. Join the community of makers and tinkerers—people turning ideas into reality with 3D printing. Subscribe for more 3D printing guides and projects, drop a comment sharing what you’re printing, or reach out and tell me about your latest project. Let’s build together.

D. Bryan King

Sources

• Athanasius, On the Incarnation of the Word of God
• Gerald O’Collins, Incarnation
• Gerald O’Collins, Christology: A Biblical, Historical, and Systematic Study of Jesus Christ
• Dietrich Bonhoeffer, God Is in the Manger: Reflections on Advent and Christmas
• Athanasius via C.S. Lewis Institute, On the Incarnation (summary & analysis)
• Russell Moore, The Incarnation Is More than the Manger
• The Gospel Coalition, The Humility of Christ: From Manger to Cross
• Why the Incarnation? Athanasius & Advent
• Brian Chilton, The Incarnation’s Appeal to Humility
• Daniel Kendall & Gerald O’Collins, eds., Karl Barth and the Incarnation: Christology & the Humility of God
• Ed Rickard, The Child in a Manger: Commentary on Luke 2:1‑20
• Precept Austin, Luke 2 Commentary
• Lange’s Commentary on Luke 2
• Grace Presbyterian Church, The Messiah in a Manger
• Opus Dei, Commentary on the Gospel: Born in Bethlehem

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this post are solely those of the author. The information provided is based on personal research, experience, and understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing. Readers should consult relevant experts or authorities for specific guidance related to their unique situations.

Related Posts

Rate this:

#AdventStudy #Bethlehem #biblicalApplication #biblicalCourage #biblicalExample #biblicalHumility #biblicalPrinciplesForMen #BiblicalReflection #biblicalStudyForMen #birthOfJesus #characterFormation #ChristCenteredLife #ChristLikeHumility #ChristSBirth #ChristSHumility #ChristSMission #ChristianDiscipleship #ChristianMasculinity #ChristianMentorship #ChristianReflection #Christology #courage #dailyDiscipline #divineExample #faithInAction #faithBasedLiving #faithfulness #godlyCourage #godlyManhood #humbleLeadership #humility #humilityInLeadership #incarnation #integrity #kingdomValues #Leadership #leadershipPrinciples #lifeLessonsFromJesus #livingWithIntegrity #Luke2 #manger #manhood #masculineFaith #modernMan #moralCourage #obedience #perseverance #personalTransformation #practicalTheology #quietBravery #responsibility #servantLeadership #servantHeartedLeadership #spiritualDiscipline #SpiritualGrowth #spiritualObedience #spiritualStrength #spiritualWisdom #strengthThroughService #swaddlingClothes #unseenWork

The Significance of the Manger: How Christ’s Humble Birth Shapes a Man’s Strength and Leadership

1,444 words, 8 minutes read time

I want to take you back to Bethlehem, the quiet town, the Roman census rolling through, the air thick with expectation and tension. Picture a young couple arriving late at night, streets bustling with shepherds, travelers, and the faint glimmer of torchlight flickering on stone walls. There is no royal palace, no grand fanfare, no ceremonial welcome. Instead, a stable—a place for animals—is their sanctuary. And in that lowly manger, wrapped in swaddling clothes, lies the King of kings.

This is the scene that defines humility at its most radical. The birth of Jesus wasn’t just a story to warm hearts at Christmas; it was the blueprint of God’s upside-down kingdom values, a blueprint for every man called to lead with strength, courage, and integrity. Humility, service, and courage in obscurity—these are not soft virtues; they are the hallmarks of true leadership.

In this study, we’ll explore three pillars emerging from the manger that shape a man’s character. First, humility before God: why the King chose the lowliest place to enter the world and what that means for us. Second, leadership through service: how Jesus’ life demonstrates strength under submission. Third, courage in obscurity: thriving faithfully when no one is watching. By the end, you won’t just see a story of a baby in a trough—you’ll understand a call to embody a life of resilient, humble strength.

Humility Before God: Lessons from the Manger

The Greek word used for “manger” in Luke 2:7 is phatnē, a simple feeding trough for animals. It’s not glamorous. It’s not the kind of place a man imagines for a king’s birth. And yet, this is where God chose to plant His Son. This choice wasn’t random; it was deliberate theology in action, showing that God values humility over pomp, service over status.

Bethlehem at the time was under Roman occupation. The Jews longed for a Messiah who would sweep in with armies and crowns, a conqueror to restore their pride and sovereignty. But God’s Messiah came quietly, unarmed, dependent, and vulnerable. The King who commands angels chose the lowliest of entry points, signaling that true power is often hidden under weakness.

For men today, humility before God is not about groveling or self-deprecation; it’s about recognizing our place in the grand scheme of life and aligning our strength under God’s authority. It’s about showing up as you are, stripped of pretense, ready to follow rather than dominate. Think of it as the foundation of a building: invisible but crucial. A man who refuses to kneel in humility may boast outward power, but without that grounding, the whole structure risks collapse.

Here’s a truth I’ve had to wrestle with personally: humility doesn’t mean you are weak. It means you are aware of what you can and cannot control, and you are willing to carry responsibility with integrity. It’s like showing up to the battlefield with nothing but a trusted blade—no armor, no pomp, just readiness to serve. That’s the heart of a man shaped by the manger.

Leadership Through Service: Strength in Submission

When you look at the manger, you see more than a scene of humility; you see a model of servant-leadership. Philippians 2:5–8 frames this perfectly: Christ, though in the form of God, did not grasp at status. He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant. This is leadership that wins not through intimidation but through example, commitment, and sacrifice.

Worldly power often equates leadership with control, title, or recognition. But God’s standard is different. True leadership is lifting others, absorbing the strain, making the hard choices without applause, and guiding people with a heart of service. For men, this applies across every arena—family, workplace, community. The strongest men I’ve known lead quietly, consistently, and sacrificially. They don’t need a throne; they need character.

Consider the metaphor of a yoke. A man’s strength is measured by how well he can bear the yoke—responsibilities, burdens, and trials—without complaint. Jesus’ birth in a lowly manger prefigures the ultimate act of leadership: carrying the cross for the world. In your own life, you may not face crucifixion, but every act of leadership is a chance to serve with courage, humility, and vision. This is the marrow of masculine strength.

And here’s the kicker: service-driven leadership doesn’t just bless others; it refines you. It teaches patience, self-control, and endurance. It forces you to operate in alignment with truth rather than ego. Jesus’ life started in a manger and ended on a cross, a testament that leadership is forged in quiet, humble service, not public accolades.

Courage in Obscurity: Faithful Work When No One’s Watching

There’s a raw courage in the manger that often gets overlooked. No one expected God to enter the world this way. No crowds, no coronation, no pomp. Just a couple of parents, some animals, and a feeding trough. The first Christmas is a story of working faithfully in obscurity, trusting God even when recognition is absent.

Life as a man of integrity often mirrors that scene. Most of the work that shapes character is unseen: the quiet discipline at the gym, the late nights working to provide for family, the decisions made when no one is watching. The courage to persist without immediate reward is exactly what the manger teaches.

Biblically, God frequently works through hidden, humble circumstances. Joseph, David, and even Paul had seasons where their faithfulness was invisible. Men are called to the same quiet bravery—faithfulness not measured by applause, but by steadfastness under pressure. Strength in obscurity is the kind that lasts, the kind that shapes generations.

A metaphor I’ve lived by: real men are forged in the grind. You don’t become steel in the spotlight; you become steel in the heat of daily struggle, in rooms no one sees, in choices no one notices. The manger tells us: God honors that kind of courage, and it’s the foundation of enduring manhood.

Conclusion

The manger is more than a Christmas story. It is a blueprint for men striving to embody humility, leadership, and courage. Christ’s birth calls us to a strength that is rooted in humility, a leadership measured by service, and a courage defined by faithfulness rather than recognition.

We’ve seen three pillars here: humility before God, leadership through service, and courage in obscurity. Each one challenges men to measure strength not by status or applause but by character, perseverance, and faithful obedience. The manger doesn’t just whisper; it calls us to build lives of lasting integrity.

So, ask yourself: Where are you seeking recognition instead of doing the work? Where are you carrying burdens without leaning into humility and service? Where is your courage tested in the quiet spaces of life? The wood of the manger still speaks. Let it teach you to be strong, faithful, and humble. Let it shape you into a man who leads not with ego, but with purpose and conviction.

If this message resonated, I invite you to join the conversation: leave a comment, share your reflections, or subscribe to continue growing as a man of faith, courage, and integrity. The path won’t be easy, but as the manger teaches, greatness in God’s kingdom begins in humility.

Call to Action

If this post sparked your creativity, don’t just scroll past. Join the community of makers and tinkerers—people turning ideas into reality with 3D printing. Subscribe for more 3D printing guides and projects, drop a comment sharing what you’re printing, or reach out and tell me about your latest project. Let’s build together.

D. Bryan King

Sources

• Athanasius, On the Incarnation of the Word of God
• Gerald O’Collins, Incarnation
• Gerald O’Collins, Christology: A Biblical, Historical, and Systematic Study of Jesus Christ
• Dietrich Bonhoeffer, God Is in the Manger: Reflections on Advent and Christmas
• Athanasius via C.S. Lewis Institute, On the Incarnation (summary & analysis)
• Russell Moore, The Incarnation Is More than the Manger
• The Gospel Coalition, The Humility of Christ: From Manger to Cross
• Why the Incarnation? Athanasius & Advent
• Brian Chilton, The Incarnation’s Appeal to Humility
• Daniel Kendall & Gerald O’Collins, eds., Karl Barth and the Incarnation: Christology & the Humility of God
• Ed Rickard, The Child in a Manger: Commentary on Luke 2:1‑20
• Precept Austin, Luke 2 Commentary
• Lange’s Commentary on Luke 2
• Grace Presbyterian Church, The Messiah in a Manger
• Opus Dei, Commentary on the Gospel: Born in Bethlehem

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this post are solely those of the author. The information provided is based on personal research, experience, and understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing. Readers should consult relevant experts or authorities for specific guidance related to their unique situations.

Related Posts

Rate this:

#AdventStudy #Bethlehem #biblicalApplication #biblicalCourage #biblicalExample #biblicalHumility #biblicalPrinciplesForMen #BiblicalReflection #biblicalStudyForMen #birthOfJesus #characterFormation #ChristCenteredLife #ChristLikeHumility #ChristSBirth #ChristSHumility #ChristSMission #ChristianDiscipleship #ChristianMasculinity #ChristianMentorship #ChristianReflection #Christology #courage #dailyDiscipline #divineExample #faithInAction #faithBasedLiving #faithfulness #godlyCourage #godlyManhood #humbleLeadership #humility #humilityInLeadership #incarnation #integrity #kingdomValues #Leadership #leadershipPrinciples #lifeLessonsFromJesus #livingWithIntegrity #Luke2 #manger #manhood #masculineFaith #modernMan #moralCourage #obedience #perseverance #personalTransformation #practicalTheology #quietBravery #responsibility #servantLeadership #servantHeartedLeadership #spiritualDiscipline #SpiritualGrowth #spiritualObedience #spiritualStrength #spiritualWisdom #strengthThroughService #swaddlingClothes #unseenWork

The Significance of the Manger: How Christ’s Humble Birth Shapes a Man’s Strength and Leadership

1,444 words, 8 minutes read time

I want to take you back to Bethlehem, the quiet town, the Roman census rolling through, the air thick with expectation and tension. Picture a young couple arriving late at night, streets bustling with shepherds, travelers, and the faint glimmer of torchlight flickering on stone walls. There is no royal palace, no grand fanfare, no ceremonial welcome. Instead, a stable—a place for animals—is their sanctuary. And in that lowly manger, wrapped in swaddling clothes, lies the King of kings.

This is the scene that defines humility at its most radical. The birth of Jesus wasn’t just a story to warm hearts at Christmas; it was the blueprint of God’s upside-down kingdom values, a blueprint for every man called to lead with strength, courage, and integrity. Humility, service, and courage in obscurity—these are not soft virtues; they are the hallmarks of true leadership.

In this study, we’ll explore three pillars emerging from the manger that shape a man’s character. First, humility before God: why the King chose the lowliest place to enter the world and what that means for us. Second, leadership through service: how Jesus’ life demonstrates strength under submission. Third, courage in obscurity: thriving faithfully when no one is watching. By the end, you won’t just see a story of a baby in a trough—you’ll understand a call to embody a life of resilient, humble strength.

Humility Before God: Lessons from the Manger

The Greek word used for “manger” in Luke 2:7 is phatnē, a simple feeding trough for animals. It’s not glamorous. It’s not the kind of place a man imagines for a king’s birth. And yet, this is where God chose to plant His Son. This choice wasn’t random; it was deliberate theology in action, showing that God values humility over pomp, service over status.

Bethlehem at the time was under Roman occupation. The Jews longed for a Messiah who would sweep in with armies and crowns, a conqueror to restore their pride and sovereignty. But God’s Messiah came quietly, unarmed, dependent, and vulnerable. The King who commands angels chose the lowliest of entry points, signaling that true power is often hidden under weakness.

For men today, humility before God is not about groveling or self-deprecation; it’s about recognizing our place in the grand scheme of life and aligning our strength under God’s authority. It’s about showing up as you are, stripped of pretense, ready to follow rather than dominate. Think of it as the foundation of a building: invisible but crucial. A man who refuses to kneel in humility may boast outward power, but without that grounding, the whole structure risks collapse.

Here’s a truth I’ve had to wrestle with personally: humility doesn’t mean you are weak. It means you are aware of what you can and cannot control, and you are willing to carry responsibility with integrity. It’s like showing up to the battlefield with nothing but a trusted blade—no armor, no pomp, just readiness to serve. That’s the heart of a man shaped by the manger.

Leadership Through Service: Strength in Submission

When you look at the manger, you see more than a scene of humility; you see a model of servant-leadership. Philippians 2:5–8 frames this perfectly: Christ, though in the form of God, did not grasp at status. He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant. This is leadership that wins not through intimidation but through example, commitment, and sacrifice.

Worldly power often equates leadership with control, title, or recognition. But God’s standard is different. True leadership is lifting others, absorbing the strain, making the hard choices without applause, and guiding people with a heart of service. For men, this applies across every arena—family, workplace, community. The strongest men I’ve known lead quietly, consistently, and sacrificially. They don’t need a throne; they need character.

Consider the metaphor of a yoke. A man’s strength is measured by how well he can bear the yoke—responsibilities, burdens, and trials—without complaint. Jesus’ birth in a lowly manger prefigures the ultimate act of leadership: carrying the cross for the world. In your own life, you may not face crucifixion, but every act of leadership is a chance to serve with courage, humility, and vision. This is the marrow of masculine strength.

And here’s the kicker: service-driven leadership doesn’t just bless others; it refines you. It teaches patience, self-control, and endurance. It forces you to operate in alignment with truth rather than ego. Jesus’ life started in a manger and ended on a cross, a testament that leadership is forged in quiet, humble service, not public accolades.

Courage in Obscurity: Faithful Work When No One’s Watching

There’s a raw courage in the manger that often gets overlooked. No one expected God to enter the world this way. No crowds, no coronation, no pomp. Just a couple of parents, some animals, and a feeding trough. The first Christmas is a story of working faithfully in obscurity, trusting God even when recognition is absent.

Life as a man of integrity often mirrors that scene. Most of the work that shapes character is unseen: the quiet discipline at the gym, the late nights working to provide for family, the decisions made when no one is watching. The courage to persist without immediate reward is exactly what the manger teaches.

Biblically, God frequently works through hidden, humble circumstances. Joseph, David, and even Paul had seasons where their faithfulness was invisible. Men are called to the same quiet bravery—faithfulness not measured by applause, but by steadfastness under pressure. Strength in obscurity is the kind that lasts, the kind that shapes generations.

A metaphor I’ve lived by: real men are forged in the grind. You don’t become steel in the spotlight; you become steel in the heat of daily struggle, in rooms no one sees, in choices no one notices. The manger tells us: God honors that kind of courage, and it’s the foundation of enduring manhood.

Conclusion

The manger is more than a Christmas story. It is a blueprint for men striving to embody humility, leadership, and courage. Christ’s birth calls us to a strength that is rooted in humility, a leadership measured by service, and a courage defined by faithfulness rather than recognition.

We’ve seen three pillars here: humility before God, leadership through service, and courage in obscurity. Each one challenges men to measure strength not by status or applause but by character, perseverance, and faithful obedience. The manger doesn’t just whisper; it calls us to build lives of lasting integrity.

So, ask yourself: Where are you seeking recognition instead of doing the work? Where are you carrying burdens without leaning into humility and service? Where is your courage tested in the quiet spaces of life? The wood of the manger still speaks. Let it teach you to be strong, faithful, and humble. Let it shape you into a man who leads not with ego, but with purpose and conviction.

If this message resonated, I invite you to join the conversation: leave a comment, share your reflections, or subscribe to continue growing as a man of faith, courage, and integrity. The path won’t be easy, but as the manger teaches, greatness in God’s kingdom begins in humility.

Call to Action

If this post sparked your creativity, don’t just scroll past. Join the community of makers and tinkerers—people turning ideas into reality with 3D printing. Subscribe for more 3D printing guides and projects, drop a comment sharing what you’re printing, or reach out and tell me about your latest project. Let’s build together.

D. Bryan King

Sources

• Athanasius, On the Incarnation of the Word of God
• Gerald O’Collins, Incarnation
• Gerald O’Collins, Christology: A Biblical, Historical, and Systematic Study of Jesus Christ
• Dietrich Bonhoeffer, God Is in the Manger: Reflections on Advent and Christmas
• Athanasius via C.S. Lewis Institute, On the Incarnation (summary & analysis)
• Russell Moore, The Incarnation Is More than the Manger
• The Gospel Coalition, The Humility of Christ: From Manger to Cross
• Why the Incarnation? Athanasius & Advent
• Brian Chilton, The Incarnation’s Appeal to Humility
• Daniel Kendall & Gerald O’Collins, eds., Karl Barth and the Incarnation: Christology & the Humility of God
• Ed Rickard, The Child in a Manger: Commentary on Luke 2:1‑20
• Precept Austin, Luke 2 Commentary
• Lange’s Commentary on Luke 2
• Grace Presbyterian Church, The Messiah in a Manger
• Opus Dei, Commentary on the Gospel: Born in Bethlehem

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this post are solely those of the author. The information provided is based on personal research, experience, and understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing. Readers should consult relevant experts or authorities for specific guidance related to their unique situations.

Related Posts

Rate this:

#AdventStudy #Bethlehem #biblicalApplication #biblicalCourage #biblicalExample #biblicalHumility #biblicalPrinciplesForMen #BiblicalReflection #biblicalStudyForMen #birthOfJesus #characterFormation #ChristCenteredLife #ChristLikeHumility #ChristSBirth #ChristSHumility #ChristSMission #ChristianDiscipleship #ChristianMasculinity #ChristianMentorship #ChristianReflection #Christology #courage #dailyDiscipline #divineExample #faithInAction #faithBasedLiving #faithfulness #godlyCourage #godlyManhood #humbleLeadership #humility #humilityInLeadership #incarnation #integrity #kingdomValues #Leadership #leadershipPrinciples #lifeLessonsFromJesus #livingWithIntegrity #Luke2 #manger #manhood #masculineFaith #modernMan #moralCourage #obedience #perseverance #personalTransformation #practicalTheology #quietBravery #responsibility #servantLeadership #servantHeartedLeadership #spiritualDiscipline #SpiritualGrowth #spiritualObedience #spiritualStrength #spiritualWisdom #strengthThroughService #swaddlingClothes #unseenWork

The Significance of the Manger: How Christ’s Humble Birth Shapes a Man’s Strength and Leadership

1,444 words, 8 minutes read time

I want to take you back to Bethlehem, the quiet town, the Roman census rolling through, the air thick with expectation and tension. Picture a young couple arriving late at night, streets bustling with shepherds, travelers, and the faint glimmer of torchlight flickering on stone walls. There is no royal palace, no grand fanfare, no ceremonial welcome. Instead, a stable—a place for animals—is their sanctuary. And in that lowly manger, wrapped in swaddling clothes, lies the King of kings.

This is the scene that defines humility at its most radical. The birth of Jesus wasn’t just a story to warm hearts at Christmas; it was the blueprint of God’s upside-down kingdom values, a blueprint for every man called to lead with strength, courage, and integrity. Humility, service, and courage in obscurity—these are not soft virtues; they are the hallmarks of true leadership.

In this study, we’ll explore three pillars emerging from the manger that shape a man’s character. First, humility before God: why the King chose the lowliest place to enter the world and what that means for us. Second, leadership through service: how Jesus’ life demonstrates strength under submission. Third, courage in obscurity: thriving faithfully when no one is watching. By the end, you won’t just see a story of a baby in a trough—you’ll understand a call to embody a life of resilient, humble strength.

Humility Before God: Lessons from the Manger

The Greek word used for “manger” in Luke 2:7 is phatnē, a simple feeding trough for animals. It’s not glamorous. It’s not the kind of place a man imagines for a king’s birth. And yet, this is where God chose to plant His Son. This choice wasn’t random; it was deliberate theology in action, showing that God values humility over pomp, service over status.

Bethlehem at the time was under Roman occupation. The Jews longed for a Messiah who would sweep in with armies and crowns, a conqueror to restore their pride and sovereignty. But God’s Messiah came quietly, unarmed, dependent, and vulnerable. The King who commands angels chose the lowliest of entry points, signaling that true power is often hidden under weakness.

For men today, humility before God is not about groveling or self-deprecation; it’s about recognizing our place in the grand scheme of life and aligning our strength under God’s authority. It’s about showing up as you are, stripped of pretense, ready to follow rather than dominate. Think of it as the foundation of a building: invisible but crucial. A man who refuses to kneel in humility may boast outward power, but without that grounding, the whole structure risks collapse.

Here’s a truth I’ve had to wrestle with personally: humility doesn’t mean you are weak. It means you are aware of what you can and cannot control, and you are willing to carry responsibility with integrity. It’s like showing up to the battlefield with nothing but a trusted blade—no armor, no pomp, just readiness to serve. That’s the heart of a man shaped by the manger.

Leadership Through Service: Strength in Submission

When you look at the manger, you see more than a scene of humility; you see a model of servant-leadership. Philippians 2:5–8 frames this perfectly: Christ, though in the form of God, did not grasp at status. He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant. This is leadership that wins not through intimidation but through example, commitment, and sacrifice.

Worldly power often equates leadership with control, title, or recognition. But God’s standard is different. True leadership is lifting others, absorbing the strain, making the hard choices without applause, and guiding people with a heart of service. For men, this applies across every arena—family, workplace, community. The strongest men I’ve known lead quietly, consistently, and sacrificially. They don’t need a throne; they need character.

Consider the metaphor of a yoke. A man’s strength is measured by how well he can bear the yoke—responsibilities, burdens, and trials—without complaint. Jesus’ birth in a lowly manger prefigures the ultimate act of leadership: carrying the cross for the world. In your own life, you may not face crucifixion, but every act of leadership is a chance to serve with courage, humility, and vision. This is the marrow of masculine strength.

And here’s the kicker: service-driven leadership doesn’t just bless others; it refines you. It teaches patience, self-control, and endurance. It forces you to operate in alignment with truth rather than ego. Jesus’ life started in a manger and ended on a cross, a testament that leadership is forged in quiet, humble service, not public accolades.

Courage in Obscurity: Faithful Work When No One’s Watching

There’s a raw courage in the manger that often gets overlooked. No one expected God to enter the world this way. No crowds, no coronation, no pomp. Just a couple of parents, some animals, and a feeding trough. The first Christmas is a story of working faithfully in obscurity, trusting God even when recognition is absent.

Life as a man of integrity often mirrors that scene. Most of the work that shapes character is unseen: the quiet discipline at the gym, the late nights working to provide for family, the decisions made when no one is watching. The courage to persist without immediate reward is exactly what the manger teaches.

Biblically, God frequently works through hidden, humble circumstances. Joseph, David, and even Paul had seasons where their faithfulness was invisible. Men are called to the same quiet bravery—faithfulness not measured by applause, but by steadfastness under pressure. Strength in obscurity is the kind that lasts, the kind that shapes generations.

A metaphor I’ve lived by: real men are forged in the grind. You don’t become steel in the spotlight; you become steel in the heat of daily struggle, in rooms no one sees, in choices no one notices. The manger tells us: God honors that kind of courage, and it’s the foundation of enduring manhood.

Conclusion

The manger is more than a Christmas story. It is a blueprint for men striving to embody humility, leadership, and courage. Christ’s birth calls us to a strength that is rooted in humility, a leadership measured by service, and a courage defined by faithfulness rather than recognition.

We’ve seen three pillars here: humility before God, leadership through service, and courage in obscurity. Each one challenges men to measure strength not by status or applause but by character, perseverance, and faithful obedience. The manger doesn’t just whisper; it calls us to build lives of lasting integrity.

So, ask yourself: Where are you seeking recognition instead of doing the work? Where are you carrying burdens without leaning into humility and service? Where is your courage tested in the quiet spaces of life? The wood of the manger still speaks. Let it teach you to be strong, faithful, and humble. Let it shape you into a man who leads not with ego, but with purpose and conviction.

If this message resonated, I invite you to join the conversation: leave a comment, share your reflections, or subscribe to continue growing as a man of faith, courage, and integrity. The path won’t be easy, but as the manger teaches, greatness in God’s kingdom begins in humility.

Call to Action

If this post sparked your creativity, don’t just scroll past. Join the community of makers and tinkerers—people turning ideas into reality with 3D printing. Subscribe for more 3D printing guides and projects, drop a comment sharing what you’re printing, or reach out and tell me about your latest project. Let’s build together.

D. Bryan King

Sources

• Athanasius, On the Incarnation of the Word of God
• Gerald O’Collins, Incarnation
• Gerald O’Collins, Christology: A Biblical, Historical, and Systematic Study of Jesus Christ
• Dietrich Bonhoeffer, God Is in the Manger: Reflections on Advent and Christmas
• Athanasius via C.S. Lewis Institute, On the Incarnation (summary & analysis)
• Russell Moore, The Incarnation Is More than the Manger
• The Gospel Coalition, The Humility of Christ: From Manger to Cross
• Why the Incarnation? Athanasius & Advent
• Brian Chilton, The Incarnation’s Appeal to Humility
• Daniel Kendall & Gerald O’Collins, eds., Karl Barth and the Incarnation: Christology & the Humility of God
• Ed Rickard, The Child in a Manger: Commentary on Luke 2:1‑20
• Precept Austin, Luke 2 Commentary
• Lange’s Commentary on Luke 2
• Grace Presbyterian Church, The Messiah in a Manger
• Opus Dei, Commentary on the Gospel: Born in Bethlehem

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this post are solely those of the author. The information provided is based on personal research, experience, and understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing. Readers should consult relevant experts or authorities for specific guidance related to their unique situations.

Related Posts

Rate this:

#AdventStudy #Bethlehem #biblicalApplication #biblicalCourage #biblicalExample #biblicalHumility #biblicalPrinciplesForMen #BiblicalReflection #biblicalStudyForMen #birthOfJesus #characterFormation #ChristCenteredLife #ChristLikeHumility #ChristSBirth #ChristSHumility #ChristSMission #ChristianDiscipleship #ChristianMasculinity #ChristianMentorship #ChristianReflection #Christology #courage #dailyDiscipline #divineExample #faithInAction #faithBasedLiving #faithfulness #godlyCourage #godlyManhood #humbleLeadership #humility #humilityInLeadership #incarnation #integrity #kingdomValues #Leadership #leadershipPrinciples #lifeLessonsFromJesus #livingWithIntegrity #Luke2 #manger #manhood #masculineFaith #modernMan #moralCourage #obedience #perseverance #personalTransformation #practicalTheology #quietBravery #responsibility #servantLeadership #servantHeartedLeadership #spiritualDiscipline #SpiritualGrowth #spiritualObedience #spiritualStrength #spiritualWisdom #strengthThroughService #swaddlingClothes #unseenWork

The Significance of the Manger: How Christ’s Humble Birth Shapes a Man’s Strength and Leadership

1,444 words, 8 minutes read time

I want to take you back to Bethlehem, the quiet town, the Roman census rolling through, the air thick with expectation and tension. Picture a young couple arriving late at night, streets bustling with shepherds, travelers, and the faint glimmer of torchlight flickering on stone walls. There is no royal palace, no grand fanfare, no ceremonial welcome. Instead, a stable—a place for animals—is their sanctuary. And in that lowly manger, wrapped in swaddling clothes, lies the King of kings.

This is the scene that defines humility at its most radical. The birth of Jesus wasn’t just a story to warm hearts at Christmas; it was the blueprint of God’s upside-down kingdom values, a blueprint for every man called to lead with strength, courage, and integrity. Humility, service, and courage in obscurity—these are not soft virtues; they are the hallmarks of true leadership.

In this study, we’ll explore three pillars emerging from the manger that shape a man’s character. First, humility before God: why the King chose the lowliest place to enter the world and what that means for us. Second, leadership through service: how Jesus’ life demonstrates strength under submission. Third, courage in obscurity: thriving faithfully when no one is watching. By the end, you won’t just see a story of a baby in a trough—you’ll understand a call to embody a life of resilient, humble strength.

Humility Before God: Lessons from the Manger

The Greek word used for “manger” in Luke 2:7 is phatnē, a simple feeding trough for animals. It’s not glamorous. It’s not the kind of place a man imagines for a king’s birth. And yet, this is where God chose to plant His Son. This choice wasn’t random; it was deliberate theology in action, showing that God values humility over pomp, service over status.

Bethlehem at the time was under Roman occupation. The Jews longed for a Messiah who would sweep in with armies and crowns, a conqueror to restore their pride and sovereignty. But God’s Messiah came quietly, unarmed, dependent, and vulnerable. The King who commands angels chose the lowliest of entry points, signaling that true power is often hidden under weakness.

For men today, humility before God is not about groveling or self-deprecation; it’s about recognizing our place in the grand scheme of life and aligning our strength under God’s authority. It’s about showing up as you are, stripped of pretense, ready to follow rather than dominate. Think of it as the foundation of a building: invisible but crucial. A man who refuses to kneel in humility may boast outward power, but without that grounding, the whole structure risks collapse.

Here’s a truth I’ve had to wrestle with personally: humility doesn’t mean you are weak. It means you are aware of what you can and cannot control, and you are willing to carry responsibility with integrity. It’s like showing up to the battlefield with nothing but a trusted blade—no armor, no pomp, just readiness to serve. That’s the heart of a man shaped by the manger.

Leadership Through Service: Strength in Submission

When you look at the manger, you see more than a scene of humility; you see a model of servant-leadership. Philippians 2:5–8 frames this perfectly: Christ, though in the form of God, did not grasp at status. He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant. This is leadership that wins not through intimidation but through example, commitment, and sacrifice.

Worldly power often equates leadership with control, title, or recognition. But God’s standard is different. True leadership is lifting others, absorbing the strain, making the hard choices without applause, and guiding people with a heart of service. For men, this applies across every arena—family, workplace, community. The strongest men I’ve known lead quietly, consistently, and sacrificially. They don’t need a throne; they need character.

Consider the metaphor of a yoke. A man’s strength is measured by how well he can bear the yoke—responsibilities, burdens, and trials—without complaint. Jesus’ birth in a lowly manger prefigures the ultimate act of leadership: carrying the cross for the world. In your own life, you may not face crucifixion, but every act of leadership is a chance to serve with courage, humility, and vision. This is the marrow of masculine strength.

And here’s the kicker: service-driven leadership doesn’t just bless others; it refines you. It teaches patience, self-control, and endurance. It forces you to operate in alignment with truth rather than ego. Jesus’ life started in a manger and ended on a cross, a testament that leadership is forged in quiet, humble service, not public accolades.

Courage in Obscurity: Faithful Work When No One’s Watching

There’s a raw courage in the manger that often gets overlooked. No one expected God to enter the world this way. No crowds, no coronation, no pomp. Just a couple of parents, some animals, and a feeding trough. The first Christmas is a story of working faithfully in obscurity, trusting God even when recognition is absent.

Life as a man of integrity often mirrors that scene. Most of the work that shapes character is unseen: the quiet discipline at the gym, the late nights working to provide for family, the decisions made when no one is watching. The courage to persist without immediate reward is exactly what the manger teaches.

Biblically, God frequently works through hidden, humble circumstances. Joseph, David, and even Paul had seasons where their faithfulness was invisible. Men are called to the same quiet bravery—faithfulness not measured by applause, but by steadfastness under pressure. Strength in obscurity is the kind that lasts, the kind that shapes generations.

A metaphor I’ve lived by: real men are forged in the grind. You don’t become steel in the spotlight; you become steel in the heat of daily struggle, in rooms no one sees, in choices no one notices. The manger tells us: God honors that kind of courage, and it’s the foundation of enduring manhood.

Conclusion

The manger is more than a Christmas story. It is a blueprint for men striving to embody humility, leadership, and courage. Christ’s birth calls us to a strength that is rooted in humility, a leadership measured by service, and a courage defined by faithfulness rather than recognition.

We’ve seen three pillars here: humility before God, leadership through service, and courage in obscurity. Each one challenges men to measure strength not by status or applause but by character, perseverance, and faithful obedience. The manger doesn’t just whisper; it calls us to build lives of lasting integrity.

So, ask yourself: Where are you seeking recognition instead of doing the work? Where are you carrying burdens without leaning into humility and service? Where is your courage tested in the quiet spaces of life? The wood of the manger still speaks. Let it teach you to be strong, faithful, and humble. Let it shape you into a man who leads not with ego, but with purpose and conviction.

If this message resonated, I invite you to join the conversation: leave a comment, share your reflections, or subscribe to continue growing as a man of faith, courage, and integrity. The path won’t be easy, but as the manger teaches, greatness in God’s kingdom begins in humility.

Call to Action

If this post sparked your creativity, don’t just scroll past. Join the community of makers and tinkerers—people turning ideas into reality with 3D printing. Subscribe for more 3D printing guides and projects, drop a comment sharing what you’re printing, or reach out and tell me about your latest project. Let’s build together.

D. Bryan King

Sources

• Athanasius, On the Incarnation of the Word of God
• Gerald O’Collins, Incarnation
• Gerald O’Collins, Christology: A Biblical, Historical, and Systematic Study of Jesus Christ
• Dietrich Bonhoeffer, God Is in the Manger: Reflections on Advent and Christmas
• Athanasius via C.S. Lewis Institute, On the Incarnation (summary & analysis)
• Russell Moore, The Incarnation Is More than the Manger
• The Gospel Coalition, The Humility of Christ: From Manger to Cross
• Why the Incarnation? Athanasius & Advent
• Brian Chilton, The Incarnation’s Appeal to Humility
• Daniel Kendall & Gerald O’Collins, eds., Karl Barth and the Incarnation: Christology & the Humility of God
• Ed Rickard, The Child in a Manger: Commentary on Luke 2:1‑20
• Precept Austin, Luke 2 Commentary
• Lange’s Commentary on Luke 2
• Grace Presbyterian Church, The Messiah in a Manger
• Opus Dei, Commentary on the Gospel: Born in Bethlehem

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this post are solely those of the author. The information provided is based on personal research, experience, and understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing. Readers should consult relevant experts or authorities for specific guidance related to their unique situations.

Related Posts

Rate this:

#AdventStudy #Bethlehem #biblicalApplication #biblicalCourage #biblicalExample #biblicalHumility #biblicalPrinciplesForMen #BiblicalReflection #biblicalStudyForMen #birthOfJesus #characterFormation #ChristCenteredLife #ChristLikeHumility #ChristSBirth #ChristSHumility #ChristSMission #ChristianDiscipleship #ChristianMasculinity #ChristianMentorship #ChristianReflection #Christology #courage #dailyDiscipline #divineExample #faithInAction #faithBasedLiving #faithfulness #godlyCourage #godlyManhood #humbleLeadership #humility #humilityInLeadership #incarnation #integrity #kingdomValues #Leadership #leadershipPrinciples #lifeLessonsFromJesus #livingWithIntegrity #Luke2 #manger #manhood #masculineFaith #modernMan #moralCourage #obedience #perseverance #personalTransformation #practicalTheology #quietBravery #responsibility #servantLeadership #servantHeartedLeadership #spiritualDiscipline #SpiritualGrowth #spiritualObedience #spiritualStrength #spiritualWisdom #strengthThroughService #swaddlingClothes #unseenWork

As we encounter Jesus, it is crucial that we aren't just encountering a spokesperson, because a spokesperson is frequently powerless to solve any meaningful problem. And we have those. So, let's think about who Jesus really is... https://youtube.com/live/jFvDmeObuMg

#Christianity #Salvation #Christmas #Advent #Incarnation #Theology

We need something that lasts, not just a temporary banner of God's love. Fortunately, that's exactly what God provides for us. https://youtube.com/live/C_mAZjSrdu8

#Christianity #Advent #Incarnation #Revelation #Jesus

#accomplissement #conscience #connaissance #continuité #destin #double utopie #éternité #évolution #fragilité #humanité #idéal #immortalité #incarnation #impermanence #intellectualité #libre arbitre #Minerve #mythe #pensée #perfection #philosophie #quête #savoir #troisième voie #utopie

http://atypikal.life/2025/11/09/eloge-de-la-troisieme-voie-de-minerve/?utm_source=mastodon&utm_medium=jetpack_social

My best friend's multimedia spiritual CD project is online, and we hope for lots of visitors and lots of likes and comments under the music video. Please share this!

May the gods be with you. 🙏 Viva Karma!

🕉️ https://kaiser.uber.space ☯️

More about Jakob the 18th (German Newspaper):
https://www.abendblatt.de/hamburg/article108035072/Ein-Lebenswerk-Das-irdische-Paradies-ist-nah.html

~≈∞888∞≈~

#Karma #Spirituality #Gods #Incarnation #Rebirth #Hinduism #Krishna #Peace #Religion #Paradies #Goa #India #Trance #Dreams #Paradise #Kunst #Music #Art #Books #Hamburg #Germany #QWP

Das multimediale spirituelle CD-Projekt meines besten Freundes »Jakob der 18.« ist online & wir hoffen auf reichlichen Besuch und viele Likes und Kommentare unter dem Musikvideo. Teilt dies gerne weiter. Mögen die Götter mit euch sein. 🙏

Viva Karma!

🕉️ https://kaiser.uber.space ☯️

Mehr über Jakob:
https://www.abendblatt.de/hamburg/article108035072/Ein-Lebenswerk-Das-irdische-Paradies-ist-nah.html

~≈∞888∞≈~

#Karma #Spirituality #Gods #Incarnation #Rebirth #Hinduism #Krishna #Peace #Religion #Paradies #Goa #India #Paradise #Kunst #Music #Art #Books #Hamburg #Germany #QWP

Spiritualité de François d'Assise 🦉🐺🐟🏞️

#editionssalvator #suzannegiuseppitestut #francoisdassise #francois #assise #coeur #ecoute #plaisir #pauvre #luxe #desir #symbole #conscience #quete #interieur #spiritualite #creation #possession #rangsocial #humilité #obeissance #meditation #mediter #evangile #jesus #rencontre #bible #incarnation #tout #nature

https://youtube.com/shorts/92VdnL1EhGI?feature=share

To my fellow #lightworkers: What magic would you weave if this was your final go around on the carousel of this earthly plane? If you knew that, after this #incarnation, your work would be complete?
The hour is growing late. What does the world need most?
#reincarnation #ascension

To my fellow #lightworkers: What magic would you weave if this was your final go around on the carousel of this earthly plane? If you knew that, after this #incarnation, your work would be complete?
The hour is growing late. What does the world need most?
#reincarnation #ascension

Marie du jour, 20 May: Père Jacques

The Incarnation is likewise a work of love. The Holy Spirit knew the Virgin Mary in advance, for he taught her the rich lessons of prayer.

Consider Mary’s long hours immersed in prayer concerning her community and the drama of divine love for all humanity; concerning the fall of the human race and the mighty power of God. In those silent hours of prayer, the Holy Spirit inflamed Mary’s heart and swept her up into the bosom of the triune God. There, Mary was immersed in the ocean of God’s being.

Mary’s hours of prayer! Therein, God’s presence attains a new and unprecedented level.

God is going to ask Mary to allow her body to bring about his Incarnation. He is going to embody himself in a mysterious way in the offspring to be born of her pure blood, divinely preserved from every stain of sin. The Holy Spirit is the author of this wondrous work of love.

“The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore, the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God” [Luke 1:35].

Servant of God Père Jacques de Jésus

Retreat for the Carmel of Pontoise
Conference 12: The Holy Spirit, the Master of Prayer
Saturday evening, 11 September 1943

Jacques, P 2005, Listen to the silence: A retreat with Père Jacques, translated from the French and edited by Murphy F, ICS Publications, Washington DC.

Featured image: This detailed image of Mary at the Loom by William Henry Margetson (British, 1861–1940) comes from his oil on canvas painting that was executed in 1895. It is part of the collections at the Victoria Art Gallery in Bath, England. Image credit: Victoria Art Gallery / ArtUK (Public domain)

⬦ Reflection Question ⬦
What would it take for me to let prayer form me, instead of trying to shape everything myself?
⬦ Join the conversation in the comments.

#contemplation #HolySpirit #incarnation #inspiration #PèreJacquesDeJésus #prayer #VirginMary

Quote of the day, 16 April: St. Teresa of Avila

Give us this day our daily bread (Lk 11:3)

O eternal Lord! Why do You accept such a petition? Why do You consent to it? Don’t look at His love for us, because in exchange for doing Your will perfectly, and doing it for us, He allows Himself to be crushed to pieces each day. It is for You, my Lord, to look after Him, since He will let nothing deter Him.

Why must all our good come at His expense? Why does He remain silent before all and not know how to speak for Himself, but only for us?

Well, shouldn’t there be someone to speak for this most loving Lamb? [Allow me, Lord, to speak—since You have willed to leave Him to our power—and to beseech You since He so truly obeyed You and with so much love gave Himself to us].

I have noticed how in this petition alone He repeats the words: first He says and asks the Father to give us this daily bread, and then repeats, “give it to us this day, Lord,” invoking the Father again [dádnoslo hoy, Señor].

It’s as though Jesus tells the Father that He is now ours since the Father has given Him to us to die for us; and asks that the Father not take Him from us until the end of the world; that He allow Him to serve each day. May this move your hearts, my daughters, to love your Spouse, for there is no slave who would willingly say he is a slave, and yet it seems that Jesus is honored to be one.

O Eternal Father! How much this humility deserves! What treasure do we have that could buy Your Son? The sale of Him, we already know, was for thirty pieces of silver [Mt 26:15]. But to buy Him, no price is sufficient.

Since by sharing in our nature, He has become one with us here below—and as Lord of His own will—He reminds the Father that because He belongs to Him, the Father in turn can give Him to us. And so He says, “our bread.”

He doesn’t make any difference between Himself and us, but we make one by not giving ourselves up each day for His Majesty.

Saint Teresa of Avila

The Way of Perfection, chap. 33, nos. 4–5

Teresa of Avila, St. 1985, The Collected Works of St. Teresa of Avila, translated from the Spanish by Kavanaugh, K; Rodriguez, O, ICS Publications, Washington DC.

Featured image: Judas Goes to Find the Jews (Judas va trouver les Juifs) was executed in opaque watercolor over graphite on gray wove paper by artist James Tissot, (French, 1836-1902) during the years 1886-1894 as he created his famed series The Life of Our Lord Jesus Christ (La Vie de Notre-Seigneur Jésus-Christ). So many of these well-known artworks are in the collection of the Brooklyn Museum in New York and are available for download online with no known copyright restrictions.

⬦ Reflection Question ⬦
On this day of betrayal, how are you moved by the Lord’s silence and His daily self-gift?
⬦ Join the conversation in the comments.

#bread #giving #humility #incarnation #JesusChrist #LordSPrayer #silence #StTeresaOfAvila

Quote of the day, 12 April: Père Jacques

Jesus therefore no longer walked about openly among the Jews, but went from there to a town called Ephraim in the region near the wilderness; and he remained there with the disciples.

John 11:54

I would like to join with you in observing Christ at prayer. On occasion, his apostles observed Christ at prayer, perhaps at sunset or after the last of the sick and the curious headed home.

Then, when the weary apostles searched for lodgings and longed for rest at the end of the day, Christ sought solitude, usually on the top of a hill, looking out toward the distant horizon. There he remained for some time, absorbed in prayer. What was his prayer like? […]

How boundless and constant is Christ’s prayer! Throughout his life, Christ beholds God, as we will do in heaven. Yet, that vision does not prevent Christ from acting in accordance with his human nature. He develops his faculties and learns to say “Daddy” and “Mama” at the same pace as other children. He works with his hands and earns his livelihood by the sweat of his brow.

Later on, he watches out for his family and his apostles, making sure that they have food to eat. He fulfills all his daily duties. However, these practical tasks never impinge upon his profound prayer. Whether he is planing planks at work or going to school or doing errands for his mother, he is uninterruptedly engaged in deep prayer.

Those who maintain that basic duties, social service, physical labor, or intellectual activity can interrupt prayer are mistaken. Recall the episode in the life of Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus, when she was in her room sewing. One of the novices came along unexpectedly and was struck by the radiant beauty of her face.

The novice asked: “What are you pondering, Sister?”

Saint Thérèse replied unassumingly: “I was just meditating on the Pater Noster and reflecting on how beautiful it is to say ‘Our Father’ when speaking to God.”

Her hands were at work, but her heart was at prayer. Bear in mind, her state of prayer was the same, even in the laundry.

No work can interrupt prayer.

The Servant of God Père Jacques de Jésus, O.C.D.

Retreat conference 4: Christ at Prayer
Tuesday evening, 7 September 1943
Carmel of Pontoise, France

Jacques, P 2005, Listen to the silence: A retreat with Père Jacques, translated from the French and edited by Murphy F, ICS Publications, Washington DC.

⬦ Reflection Question ⬦
How might you carry prayer into the ordinary tasks of your day today—uninterrupted?
⬦ Join the conversation in the comments.

#incarnation #inspiration #JesusChrist #PèreJacquesDeJésus #prayer #sacredHumanity #StThérèseOfLisieux

Changer de vie comme Saint François ?
#editionssalvator #suzannegiuseppitestut #francois #assise #coeur #ecoute #pauvre #luxe #desir #conscience #quete #interieur #spiritualite #creation #humilité #obeissance #meditation #evangile #jesus #rencontre #bible #incarnation #booktok #bookstok #booktube #booktuber #booklover #books #bookreview #bookstagram #bookstagrammer
https://youtube.com/shorts/iLejhj7CKzs?feature=share

Changer de vie comme Saint François ?
#editionssalvator #suzannegiuseppitestut #francois #assise #coeur #ecoute #pauvre #luxe #desir #conscience #quete #interieur #spiritualite #creation #humilité #obeissance #meditation #evangile #jesus #rencontre #bible #incarnation #booktok #bookstok #booktube #booktuber #booklover #books #bookreview #bookstagram #bookstagrammer
https://youtube.com/shorts/iLejhj7CKzs?feature=share

Changer de vie comme Saint François ?
#editionssalvator #suzannegiuseppitestut #francois #assise #coeur #ecoute #pauvre #luxe #desir #conscience #quete #interieur #spiritualite #creation #humilité #obeissance #meditation #evangile #jesus #rencontre #bible #incarnation #booktok #bookstok #booktube #booktuber #booklover #books #bookreview #bookstagram #bookstagrammer
https://youtube.com/shorts/iLejhj7CKzs?feature=share

Changer de vie comme Saint François ?
#editionssalvator #suzannegiuseppitestut #francois #assise #coeur #ecoute #pauvre #luxe #desir #conscience #quete #interieur #spiritualite #creation #humilité #obeissance #meditation #evangile #jesus #rencontre #bible #incarnation #booktok #bookstok #booktube #booktuber #booklover #books #bookreview #bookstagram #bookstagrammer
https://youtube.com/shorts/iLejhj7CKzs?feature=share

Changer de vie comme Saint François ?
#editionssalvator #suzannegiuseppitestut #francois #assise #coeur #ecoute #pauvre #luxe #desir #conscience #quete #interieur #spiritualite #creation #humilité #obeissance #meditation #evangile #jesus #rencontre #bible #incarnation #booktok #bookstok #booktube #booktuber #booklover #books #bookreview #bookstagram #bookstagrammer
https://youtube.com/shorts/iLejhj7CKzs?feature=share

Dissemblance et figuration / Fra Angelico
👍 Les notions de figuration et de dissemblance, dans le contexte contemporain du peintre du Quattrocento, révèle l’élément fondamental de la peinture religieuse, à savoir le mystère de l’Incarnation.
https://cltr.blogspot.com/2018/10/dissemblance-et-figuration-fra-angelico.html
#art #culture #peinture #mystère #Incarnation #religion #Quattrocento #FraAngelico #Italie #Noël #Bible #figure #Annonciation
Image / Noli me tangere [détail] (Wikimedia Commons)

Dissemblance et figuration / Fra Angelico
👍 Les notions de figuration et de dissemblance, dans le contexte contemporain du peintre du Quattrocento, révèle l’élément fondamental de la peinture religieuse, à savoir le mystère de l’Incarnation.
https://cltr.blogspot.com/2018/10/dissemblance-et-figuration-fra-angelico.html
#art #culture #peinture #mystère #Incarnation #religion #Quattrocento #FraAngelico #Italie #Noël #Bible #figure #Annonciation
Image / Noli me tangere [détail] (Wikimedia Commons)

Dissemblance et figuration / Fra Angelico
👍 Les notions de figuration et de dissemblance, dans le contexte contemporain du peintre du Quattrocento, révèle l’élément fondamental de la peinture religieuse, à savoir le mystère de l’Incarnation.
https://cltr.blogspot.com/2018/10/dissemblance-et-figuration-fra-angelico.html
#art #culture #peinture #mystère #Incarnation #religion #Quattrocento #FraAngelico #Italie #Noël #Bible #figure #Annonciation
Image / Noli me tangere [détail] (Wikimedia Commons)

Dissemblance et figuration / Fra Angelico
👍 Les notions de figuration et de dissemblance, dans le contexte contemporain du peintre du Quattrocento, révèle l’élément fondamental de la peinture religieuse, à savoir le mystère de l’Incarnation.
https://cltr.blogspot.com/2018/10/dissemblance-et-figuration-fra-angelico.html
#art #culture #peinture #mystère #Incarnation #religion #Quattrocento #FraAngelico #Italie #Noël #Bible #figure #Annonciation
Image / Noli me tangere [détail] (Wikimedia Commons)

Dissemblance et figuration / Fra Angelico
👍 Les notions de figuration et de dissemblance, dans le contexte contemporain du peintre du Quattrocento, révèle l’élément fondamental de la peinture religieuse, à savoir le mystère de l’Incarnation.
https://cltr.blogspot.com/2018/10/dissemblance-et-figuration-fra-angelico.html
#art #culture #peinture #mystère #Incarnation #religion #Quattrocento #FraAngelico #Italie #Noël #Bible #figure #Annonciation
Image / Noli me tangere [détail] (Wikimedia Commons)

Top ten (new) posts in October 2024

https://library.hrmtc.com/2024/11/01/top-ten-new-posts-in-october-2024/

“The most important thing in the life of any man is to discover the secret purpose of his incarnation, and to follow it with wariness as well as passion; with wisdom, if possible. Astrology has no more useful function that this, to discover the inmost nature of a man, and to bring it out into his consciousness, that he may fulfill it according to the law of light.”

https://library.hrmtc.com/2024/10/03/the-most-important-thing-in-the-life-of-any-man-is-to-discover-the-secret-purpose-of-his-incarnation-and-to-follow-it-with-wariness-as-well-as-passion-with-wisdom-if-possible-astrology-has-no-mo/

When I read in the Gospel “that Mary went in haste to the hill country of Judea” (Lk 1:39) to perform her loving service for her cousin Elizabeth, I imagine her passing by so beautiful, so calm and so majestic, so absorbed in recollection of the Word of God within her.

Like Him, her prayer was always this: “Ecce, here I am!”

Who? “The servant of the Lord,” (Lk 1:38) the lowliest of His creatures: she, His Mother!

Her humility was so real for she was always forgetful, unaware, freed from self. And she could sing: “The Almighty has done great things for me, henceforth all peoples will call me blessed” (Lk 1:49, 48).

Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity

Last Retreat, Fifteenth Day

Elizabeth of the Trinity, S 2014, I Have Found God, The Complete Works of Elizabeth of the Trinity Volume 1: Major spiritual writings, translated from the French by Kane, A, ICS Publications, Washington DC.

Featured image: Italian photographer Siby captures these statuettes representing the Virgin Mary greeting Elizabeth and Zechariah, and singing her Magnificat. This is part of a large nativity scene, so typical of western Europe. Image credit: Siby / Flickr (Some rights reserved)

https://carmelitequotes.blog/2024/05/31/mdj2024-ep31/

#blessed #BlessedVirginMary #Elizabeth #humility #incarnation #Judea #love #Magnificat #presenceOfGod #servant #StElizabethOfTheTrinity #virtues #Visitation

The decision for the Redemption was conceived in the eternal silence of the inner divine life.

The power of the Holy Spirit came over the Virgin praying alone in the hidden, silent room in Nazareth and brought about the Incarnation of the Savior. Congregated around the silently praying Virgin, the emergent Church awaited the promised new outpouring of the Spirit that was to quicken it into inner clarity and fruitful outer effectiveness…

The Virgin, who kept every word sent from God in her heart is the model for such attentive souls in whom Jesus’ high priestly prayer comes to life again and again.

Saint Edith Stein

The Prayer of the Church (1937)
Solitary Dialogue with God as the Prayer of the Church

Stein, E. 2014, The Hidden Life: hagiographic essays, meditations, spiritual texts, translated from the German by Stein, W, ICS Publications, Washington DC.

Featured image: The impressive Miniscalchi Altar, dedicated to the Holy Spirit, is only one of the magnificent treasures of the historic Basilica of St. Anastasia, the largest church in Verona, Italy. This Dominican church is graced by many great artworks since its founding by the Order of Preachers ca. 1290. An initiative to make the four great churches of Verona better known has established a website offering virtual tours of St. Anastasia, the Cathedral, the Basilica of Saint Zeno, and the Church of Saint Fermo. We have chosen to feature the lunette of the Miniscalchi Altar, which depicts the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Blessed Virgin and the Apostles in vivid colors. It was executed by the Verona artist Francesco Morone (1471–1529) with the help of another Verona artist, Paolo Morando, also known as “Il Cavazzola” (1486–1522). Image credit: Jean Louis Mazieres / Flickr (Some rights reserved)

https://carmelitequotes.blog/2024/05/18/mdj2024-ep19/

#alone #Annunciation #HolySpirit #incarnation #Nazareth #prayer #redemption #silence #StEdithStein #UpperRoom #VirginMary

Silence was a hallmark of Père Jacques’ life, so deeply devoted to Our Lady. One of his fellow prisoners in the concentration camp testified to his contemplative spirit:

I can still see Père Jacques kneeling on the floor of that poor barrack, without a kneeler, without any support—his whole soul concentrated and united with God. This vision of Père Jacques alone was a great comfort to me. I see his eyes fixed on the altar, his eyes where a gentle flame shone, like the flame in a shrine.

Now, let’s hear Père Jacques’ inspiring words.

God is eternal silence; God dwells in silence. He is eternal silence because he is the One who has totally realized his own being because he says all and possesses all. He is infinite happiness and infinite life. All God’s works are marked by this characteristic. Contemplate the Incarnation; it was accomplished in the silence of the Virgin Mary’s chamber at a time when she was in prolonged silence, her door closed. Our Lord’s birth came during the night, while all things were enveloped in silence. That is how the Word of God appeared on earth, and only Mary and Joseph were silently with him. They did not overwhelm him with their questions, for they were accustomed to guarding their innermost thoughts.

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Carmelite Quotes podcast for more inspiring quotes and reflections. We’re available on Spotify and will be appearing soon on other platforms.

Jacques, P 2005, Listen to the silence: A retreat with Père Jacques, translated from the French and edited by Murphy F, ICS Publications, Washington DC.

Featured image: Mary at the Loom is an oil on canvas painting executed in 1895 by British artist William Henry Margetson (1861–1940). It comes from the collections of Victoria Art Gallery in Bath, England. Image credit: Victoria Art Gallery / ArtUK (Public domain)

https://carmelitequotes.blog/2024/05/01/mdj2024-ep001/

#God #incarnation #JesusChrist #nativity #night #PèreJacquesDeJésus #ServantOfGod #silence #StJoseph #VirginMary

Silence was a hallmark of Père Jacques’ life, so deeply devoted to Our Lady. One of his fellow prisoners in the concentration camp testified to his contemplative spirit:

I can still see Père Jacques kneeling on the floor of that poor barrack, without a kneeler, without any support—his whole soul concentrated and united with God. This vision of Père Jacques alone was a great comfort to me. I see his eyes fixed on the altar, his eyes where a gentle flame shone, like the flame in a shrine.

Now, let’s hear Père Jacques’ inspiring words.

God is eternal silence; God dwells in silence. He is eternal silence because he is the One who has totally realized his own being because he says all and possesses all. He is infinite happiness and infinite life. All God’s works are marked by this characteristic. Contemplate the Incarnation; it was accomplished in the silence of the Virgin Mary’s chamber at a time when she was in prolonged silence, her door closed. Our Lord’s birth came during the night, while all things were enveloped in silence. That is how the Word of God appeared on earth, and only Mary and Joseph were silently with him. They did not overwhelm him with their questions, for they were accustomed to guarding their innermost thoughts.

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Carmelite Quotes podcast for more inspiring quotes and reflections. We’re available on Spotify and will be appearing soon on other platforms.

Jacques, P 2005, Listen to the silence: A retreat with Père Jacques, translated from the French and edited by Murphy F, ICS Publications, Washington DC.

Featured image: Mary at the Loom is an oil on canvas painting executed in 1895 by British artist William Henry Margetson (1861–1940). It comes from the collections of Victoria Art Gallery in Bath, England. Image credit: Victoria Art Gallery / ArtUK (Public domain)

https://carmelitequotes.blog/2024/05/01/mdj2024-ep001/

#God #incarnation #JesusChrist #nativity #night #PèreJacquesDeJésus #ServantOfGod #silence #StJoseph #VirginMary

Silence was a hallmark of Père Jacques’ life, so deeply devoted to Our Lady. One of his fellow prisoners in the concentration camp testified to his contemplative spirit:

I can still see Père Jacques kneeling on the floor of that poor barrack, without a kneeler, without any support—his whole soul concentrated and united with God. This vision of Père Jacques alone was a great comfort to me. I see his eyes fixed on the altar, his eyes where a gentle flame shone, like the flame in a shrine.

Now, let’s hear Père Jacques’ inspiring words.

God is eternal silence; God dwells in silence. He is eternal silence because he is the One who has totally realized his own being because he says all and possesses all. He is infinite happiness and infinite life. All God’s works are marked by this characteristic. Contemplate the Incarnation; it was accomplished in the silence of the Virgin Mary’s chamber at a time when she was in prolonged silence, her door closed. Our Lord’s birth came during the night, while all things were enveloped in silence. That is how the Word of God appeared on earth, and only Mary and Joseph were silently with him. They did not overwhelm him with their questions, for they were accustomed to guarding their innermost thoughts.

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Carmelite Quotes podcast for more inspiring quotes and reflections. We’re available on Spotify and will be appearing soon on other platforms.

Jacques, P 2005, Listen to the silence: A retreat with Père Jacques, translated from the French and edited by Murphy F, ICS Publications, Washington DC.

Featured image: Mary at the Loom is an oil on canvas painting executed in 1895 by British artist William Henry Margetson (1861–1940). It comes from the collections of Victoria Art Gallery in Bath, England. Image credit: Victoria Art Gallery / ArtUK (Public domain)

https://carmelitequotes.blog/2024/05/01/mdj2024-ep001/

#God #incarnation #JesusChrist #nativity #night #PèreJacquesDeJésus #ServantOfGod #silence #StJoseph #VirginMary

Silence was a hallmark of Père Jacques’ life, so deeply devoted to Our Lady. One of his fellow prisoners in the concentration camp testified to his contemplative spirit:

I can still see Père Jacques kneeling on the floor of that poor barrack, without a kneeler, without any support—his whole soul concentrated and united with God. This vision of Père Jacques alone was a great comfort to me. I see his eyes fixed on the altar, his eyes where a gentle flame shone, like the flame in a shrine.

Now, let’s hear Père Jacques’ inspiring words.

God is eternal silence; God dwells in silence. He is eternal silence because he is the One who has totally realized his own being because he says all and possesses all. He is infinite happiness and infinite life. All God’s works are marked by this characteristic. Contemplate the Incarnation; it was accomplished in the silence of the Virgin Mary’s chamber at a time when she was in prolonged silence, her door closed. Our Lord’s birth came during the night, while all things were enveloped in silence. That is how the Word of God appeared on earth, and only Mary and Joseph were silently with him. They did not overwhelm him with their questions, for they were accustomed to guarding their innermost thoughts.

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Carmelite Quotes podcast for more inspiring quotes and reflections. We’re available on Spotify and will be appearing soon on other platforms.

Jacques, P 2005, Listen to the silence: A retreat with Père Jacques, translated from the French and edited by Murphy F, ICS Publications, Washington DC.

Featured image: Mary at the Loom is an oil on canvas painting executed in 1895 by British artist William Henry Margetson (1861–1940). It comes from the collections of Victoria Art Gallery in Bath, England. Image credit: Victoria Art Gallery / ArtUK (Public domain)

https://carmelitequotes.blog/2024/05/01/mdj2024-ep001/

#God #incarnation #JesusChrist #nativity #night #PèreJacquesDeJésus #ServantOfGod #silence #StJoseph #VirginMary

Silence was a hallmark of Père Jacques’ life, so deeply devoted to Our Lady. One of his fellow prisoners in the concentration camp testified to his contemplative spirit:

I can still see Père Jacques kneeling on the floor of that poor barrack, without a kneeler, without any support—his whole soul concentrated and united with God. This vision of Père Jacques alone was a great comfort to me. I see his eyes fixed on the altar, his eyes where a gentle flame shone, like the flame in a shrine.

Now, let’s hear Père Jacques’ inspiring words.

God is eternal silence; God dwells in silence. He is eternal silence because he is the One who has totally realized his own being because he says all and possesses all. He is infinite happiness and infinite life. All God’s works are marked by this characteristic. Contemplate the Incarnation; it was accomplished in the silence of the Virgin Mary’s chamber at a time when she was in prolonged silence, her door closed. Our Lord’s birth came during the night, while all things were enveloped in silence. That is how the Word of God appeared on earth, and only Mary and Joseph were silently with him. They did not overwhelm him with their questions, for they were accustomed to guarding their innermost thoughts.

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Carmelite Quotes podcast for more inspiring quotes and reflections. We’re available on Spotify and will be appearing soon on other platforms.

Jacques, P 2005, Listen to the silence: A retreat with Père Jacques, translated from the French and edited by Murphy F, ICS Publications, Washington DC.

Featured image: Mary at the Loom is an oil on canvas painting executed in 1895 by British artist William Henry Margetson (1861–1940). It comes from the collections of Victoria Art Gallery in Bath, England. Image credit: Victoria Art Gallery / ArtUK (Public domain)

https://carmelitequotes.blog/2024/05/01/mdj2024-ep001/

#God #incarnation #JesusChrist #nativity #night #PèreJacquesDeJésus #ServantOfGod #silence #StJoseph #VirginMary

Dear Friends of pulling out #hair,

• My builder #neighbour is #drilling or mixing #concrete and his #building partner is hammering …
• Meanwhile I am trying to send a reading to British Gas :ablobsunglasses:
• After an hour and a half I managed it :ablobdancer:

I have killed my imaginary cat, #Bastet, pulled out my hair and called on the #Power of Jesus (the well known #incarnation of #God). As it was SO #difficult to just do that. I will have to leave my #complaint for another day … or the #calm of the #night.

Basically they are charging me monthly for a previous 3 month amount paid by direct debit. Consequently I am in major credit BUT the amount is all wrong (and of course in their #favour)

I can now log into my own account but making a complaint is just too much #hassle. I have already installed their app (no reason why I should), changed my password. Refused to engage with their chat bot. Changed my email to non google.

#Enough #already! Time for Coffee/Tea and comfort gnawing on a table leg … :ablobslurp:

Dear Friends of pulling out #hair,

• My builder #neighbour is #drilling or mixing #concrete and his #building partner is hammering …
• Meanwhile I am trying to send a reading to British Gas :ablobsunglasses:
• After an hour and a half I managed it :ablobdancer:

I have killed my imaginary cat, #Bastet, pulled out my hair and called on the #Power of Jesus (the well known #incarnation of #God). As it was SO #difficult to just do that. I will have to leave my #complaint for another day … or the #calm of the #night.

Basically they are charging me monthly for a previous 3 month amount paid by direct debit. Consequently I am in major credit BUT the amount is all wrong (and of course in their #favour)

I can now log into my own account but making a complaint is just too much #hassle. I have already installed their app (no reason why I should), changed my password. Refused to engage with their chat bot. Changed my email to non google.

#Enough #already! Time for Coffee/Tea and comfort gnawing on a table leg … :ablobslurp:

Dear Friends of pulling out #hair,

• My builder #neighbour is #drilling or mixing #concrete and his #building partner is hammering …
• Meanwhile I am trying to send a reading to British Gas :ablobsunglasses:
• After an hour and a half I managed it :ablobdancer:

I have killed my imaginary cat, #Bastet, pulled out my hair and called on the #Power of Jesus (the well known #incarnation of #God). As it was SO #difficult to just do that. I will have to leave my #complaint for another day … or the #calm of the #night.

Basically they are charging me monthly for a previous 3 month amount paid by direct debit. Consequently I am in major credit BUT the amount is all wrong (and of course in their #favour)

I can now log into my own account but making a complaint is just too much #hassle. I have already installed their app (no reason why I should), changed my password. Refused to engage with their chat bot. Changed my email to non google.

#Enough #already! Time for Coffee/Tea and comfort gnawing on a table leg … :ablobslurp:

The theatrical stages of this world – big-data companies

All links of this article:

1: https://mastodon.social/@neil_h/111714328271451674
2: https://mastodon.social/@neil_h/111714331691177798
3: https://mastodon.social/@neil_h/111714334252812472
4: https://mastodon.social/@neil_h/111714335878535882
5: https://mastodon.social/@neil_h/111714338356917812
6: https://mastodon.social/@neil_h/111714340013678113
7: https://mastodon.social/@neil_h/111714341580790298
8: https://mastodon.social/@neil_h/111714342438081353

9/9

#bigtech #privacy #dataprotection #ethicalbusiness #shamanism #cosmic #familyconstellation #incarnation

It can be profitable to ask yourself what you think of the different roles, and if something “presses your button”. In this way, you can use this technology platform shamanically too, to analyse your opinion and to learn, if you wish to.

8/9

#bigtech #privacy #dataprotection #ethicalbusiness #shamanism #cosmic #familyconstellation #incarnation

There’s the activist, developing counter-apps, raising awareness or campaigning to get regulations changed.
There’s the tech-refuser, finding alternative apps or even trying to drop off the grid completely.
There’s surely many more roles on this stage…

7/9

#bigtech #privacy #dataprotection #ethicalbusiness #shamanism #cosmic #familyconstellation #incarnation

There’s the willing user, actively using the apps and services and willing to pay the price.
There’s the unwitting user, using the apps and services but not knowing the price paid, content to drift under the influence of outside forces.
There’s the unwilling user, using the apps and services and not knowing how to avoid paying the price.

6/9

#bigtech #privacy #dataprotection #ethicalbusiness #shamanism #cosmic #familyconstellation #incarnation

But which roles does this stage perhaps offer?

There’s the founder or CEO who has the vision to direct such a company.
There’s the shareholder, passively reaping the financial rewards.
There’s the employee, creating the apps, monetizing the data or navigating the legal and regulatory landscape for the company.

5/9

#bigtech #privacy #dataprotection #ethicalbusiness #shamanism #cosmic #familyconstellation #incarnation

Big-data companies provide one such theatrical stage in our lives. These are tech companies who do their utmost to gather any and all data a person provides – whether it’s by using their websites, their apps or their services. It’s the hidden price you pay to use their apps. It’s a stage so large that it is almost impossible not to have a role on it at some point.

4/9

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Knowing this is offers a powerful freedom – the freedom to rewrite the script you wrote for yourself before incarnating. You’ve learned what you set out to learn and now you’re free to change your roles.

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For we, as spirits, choose the stages upon which we will perform our roles during our lifetimes. We do this because we wish to experience certain things during our lifetime, to learn, to grow as a spirit.

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#bigtech #privacy #dataprotection #ethicalbusiness #shamanism #cosmic #familyconstellation #incarnation