Homily for the Solemnity of the Nativity of Jesus Christ, delivered at St Agnes Church, Agnes Waters, Qld.

"For the yoke that was weighing on him, the bar across his shoulders... every cloak rolled in blood... for there is a child born for us, a son given to us and dominion is laid on his shoulders... Wide is his dominion in a peace that has no end, for the throne of David and for his royal power, which he establishes and makes secure in justice and integrity. From this time onwards and for ever, the jealous love of the Lord of Hosts will do this." (cf. Is 9).

"Let the heavens rejoice and earth be glad, let the sea and all within it thunder praise, let the land and all it bears rejoice, all the trees of the wood shout for joy at the presence of the Lord for he comes, he comes to rule the earth." (cf. Ps 96).

"[O]ur great God and saviour Christ Jesus... sacrificed himself for us in order to set us free from all wickedness and to purify a people so that it could be his very own and would have no ambition except to do good." (cf. Tit 2).

"And here is a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.’ And suddenly with the angel there was a great throng of the heavenly host, praising God and singing: ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace to men who enjoy his favour.'" (cf. Lk 2).

"The Church's constant missionary proclamation is endangered [due] to... certain presuppositions... which hinder the understanding and acceptance of the revealed truth." (par. 4, Dominus Iesus).

Artwork: a photograph of the Nativity icon I purchased from Joseph Giacaman & Sons in Bethlehem Square.