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This is, by far, the happiest Christmas in my life.
The first day of the Christmas Novena Mass (Misa de Gallo, a liturgical tradition unique to the Philippines) was very special for me. It was as if weaved especially for me. The priest in his homily shared an anecdote. It was about a Priest of the early Church whose dwelling happens to be near the birthplace of Jesus. The Priest, before Christmas, had a vision of the Niño asking a gift from him.
“Lord, I’ll give you my life.”
The Child smiled and asked, “What else can you give me?”
“Lord, I’ll give you my happiness.”
The cycle went on the nth time and still, a smile from the Child and the priest was again asked, “What else can you give me?”
“Lord, I have nothing else to give. What more can I offer to you?”
(smile) “Give me your sins.”
This anecdote hit me BIG TIME! The Priests’ name? St. Jerome.
“Jerome give me your sins.” I kept this in my heart, only to lose hold of it in the days that followed. But last 22 December, during another Misa de Gallo (but not anymore in our Seminary) I was reminded of Jesus’ wish. The priest asked, “What is it that we can offer to the Lord?”
“Ano’ng regalo mo kay Hesus?”
That same evening, I made my confession. I had a hearty talk with my friends. I felt blessed. I felt LOVED.
(to be continued)