John 1:1-5, 9-14 The Word became flesh and dwelt among us

The Mystical Nativity, Painted by Sandro Botticelli (1445-1510), Painted circa 1500, Oil on canvas, © National Gallery, London

Gospel Reading

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the Only Begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Reflection on the painting

A very Merry Christmas to each and every one of you! Today, we celebrate the wondrous mystery of the Incarnation, when our infinite God entered our finite world in Bethlehem. On a cold, clear night under the luminous stars, the perfect love of God was born among us. “Christus natus est nobis: venite, adoremus.” “Christ is born for us: come, let us adore him.” Sandro Botticelli’s The Mystical Nativity (circa 1500-1501) is a beautiful depiction of the birth of Christ. Unlike traditional nativity scenes, this painting integrates apocalyptic and eschatological themes, inspired by the turmoil of Botticelli’s era and his embrace of the fiery sermons of Savonarola. At the centre, the Virgin Mary kneels in adoration of the Christ Child, surrounded by angels and shepherds who express reverent joy. Above, angels dance in a golden circle, holding olive branches, symbolising divine triumph. Beneath them, demons flee in despair, emphasising Christ's ultimate victory of good over evil. The angels are clad in white, green, and red robes, representing faith, hope, and charity, and the inscription at the top of the painting, a rare feature in Botticelli’s work, hints at the painter’s apocalyptic anxieties. This fusion of joyous nativity imagery with warnings of divine judgement makes The Mystical Nativity a unique painting. May this holy day fill your hearts and homes with the joy of the Saviour’s birth. Wishing you all a Christmas filled with warmth, hope, and unending joy. Merry Christmas and may God bless you abundantly! Father Patrick

by Father Patrick van der Vorst