Christmas Homily of

St. Isaac of Syria

so, let no one threaten;

this is the night of the Most Gentle One--let no one be cruel;

this is the night of the most humble One -- let no one be proud.

Now is the day of joy -- let us not revenge;

now is the day of good will -- let us not be mean.

In this day of peace let us not be conquered by anger. . .

Today the Bountiful impoverished Himself for our sake;

so, O rich one, invite the poor to your table. 

Today we received a gift, for which we did not ask;

so let us give alms to those who implore us and beg.

This present day cast open the heavenly door to our prayers;

let us open the door to those who ask our forgiveness. . .

Now the Divine Being took upon Himself the

seal of humanity, in order for humanity, to be decorated by the seal of Divinity.