A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to visit Bethlehem. When I entered the hotel, it was one in the morning. I was weary because of traveling, yet as I went to the wide window of my room overlooking a valley the scene of Bethlehem at that particular moment was really astounding.

Then, I did not know in which direction the Basilica of the Nativity was situated, but still I felt that I was standing on sacred ground, for years ago Jesus Christ was born in this particular area.

I have to admit that even though this was not the first time that I was visiting the city of David, I still experienced a deep sense of awe! I felt that I had to kneel and adore the great mystery of the incarnation of the Son of God ­when God became man so that man might become like God!

My short stay in Bethlehem revealed to me that although this city was blessed with the birth of Jesus Christ, the Bethlehemites are still deprived of fruits that the birth of Jesus had promised to humanity.

In view of the approaching feast of Christmas, allow me to invite you to slow the pace of everyday life and give a glimpse at , Bethlehem , perhaps by admiring a crib! This may provide you with the same spiritual feeling I experienced when I was in Bethlehem!

In Bethlehem I visited the grotto where the Word of God was made flesh. There, I realized that by his incarnation Jesus took the human word to convey to us God’s word.

I have the feeling that today there is a need to strive more in our daily life so that God would continue to convey his redeeming message to our brethren through our own words.

This is the message I wish to share with you in this Holy Festive Season.

A Blessed Christmas to you all.