May
heaven and earth rejoice prophetically this day. May angels and men
spiritually celebrate, for God appeared in the flesh to those groping
in the darkness and resting in a shadow. Having been born of a Virgin,
a cave and a manger received Him. Shepherds relate a miracle; the
Magi from the East bring gifts to Bethlehem, while we, with unworthy
lips, render Him angelic praise: Glory to God in the highest and peace
on earth, for the hope of nations has arrived. Having come, He has
saved us from hostile bondage.
Today
heaven and earth unite, for Christ is born. Today God came to earth
in the flesh, and man was lifted up to the heavens. Today, for the
sake of all, He is seen in the flesh, the One who by nature is invisible.
Let us glorify Him, singing: Glory to God in the highest and on earth
peace which your coming has bestowed on us. O Savior, glory to You!
Rejoice,
Jerusalem; exalt all those who love Zion. Today the temporary bond
of Adam's condemnation is dissolved; Paradise is opened to us, and
the serpent is crushed; for woman, whom he first deceived, he now
perceives as mother of the Creator. O abyss of divine wealth, wisdom,
and intellect! She, who had been a sinful vessel conveying death to
all flesh, has become through the Mother of God the means of salvation
to the whole universe; for of her is born a Child, ever-perfect God,
whose birth confirms virginity, loosening the bonds of sins with swaddling
clothes, and, through his infancy, healing Eve's care-laden pains.
May the whole universe exalt and leap with joy, for Christ has come
to regenerate it and to save our souls.
When
Augustus became supreme ruler of the world, the many kingdoms among
the peoples came to an end. Likewise, when You became incarnate of
the Immaculate One, the worship of many gods had to cease. The cities
came under a universal power, and the Gentiles believed in one supreme
Divinity. Nations were registered in the name of Caesar Augustus,
and we, the faithful, were registered in your divine name, O Incarnate
One. O Lord, great is your mercy; glory to You!
