Foreword

“Justice shall flourish in His time, and fullness of peace for ever.” (Ps 72:7)

A few weeks ago, the City of Bethlehem – where Jesus was born – lit their giant Christmas tree. This is an annual tradition that was halted for two years due to the Gaza War. Due to the ceasefire, the city was able to resume its practice. Stories of both Christians and Muslims taking selfies in front of the tree as well as neighbouring cities planning to light their own Christmas trees give hope that justice and peace will soon be realised in the Holy Land and beyond.

There are other stories, oftentimes not as grand as that in the City of Bethlehem, that offer us hope amidst injustice and war. Regardless, let us be like Mary who “treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart” (Lk 2:19).

It has been twenty years since our website launched “The Nine Gifts”, an online Novena in preparation for the Lord’s Birth. As we get ready for the Big Day, let us open our hearts that have been bruised by the evils around us, to the Promised One who will sustain us in hope and bring about lasting justice and peace.

We would like to thank everyone who made this devotion possible, especially our pool of reflection writers. Your support is much appreciated. 

May God bless us all!

Pietro S. Albano

Member

Editorial Board

Fraternally,

Pietro S. Albano

Member

Editorial Board