“ The day of joy drew near, the time of exultation approached. … Simplicity is honored there, poverty is exalted, humility is commended ... and the whole night echoes with jubilation.” (cf. 1Cel85.)
The day of joy drew near. There are only a few days left to Christmas, a feast so dear for Saint Francis as well, when the celebrated is the same one who offers us the gift, and gives the greatest gift forever. It is the time of exultation for us.
This is how God has arrived: in simplicity, in poverty and in humility. If we can live these three signs at Christmas, it will be a gift of God for all, a way for us to welcome them, and a tangible sign for the others.
How joyful it is to have a God who loves the simple, the poor and the humble! How joyful it is to learn from the example of St. Francis! Let us rejoice and exult!
In the name of all the members of the Presidency, I wish you all to experience this kind of the joy of Christmas, and a Happy New Year, filled with the blessings of God.
Your brother and minister,
Tibor Kauser
Minister General OFS
Presidency and Secretariat CIOFS