"Of the manger Francis made on the day of the Lords birth.
Francis´ highest intention, his chief desire, his uppermost purpose was to observe the holy Gospel in all things and through all things and, with perfect vigilance, with all zeal, with all the longing of his mind and all the fervor of his heart, "to follow the teaching and the footsteps of our lord Jesus Christ." He would recall Christs word through persistent meditation and bring to mind his deeds through the most penetrating consideration. The humility of the incarnation and the charity of the passion occupied his memory particularly, to the extent that he wanted to think of hardly anything else.
What he did on the birthday of our lord Jesus Christ near the little town called Greccio in the third year before his glorious death should especially be noted and recalled with reverent memory."
Thomas Celano, "The First Life of St. Francis"
The Music.
This carol from the Outer Hebrides Islands was originally a Gaelic carol titled "Taladh Chriasda."
"Christ Child's Lullaby" was translated into English in 1855. It is said that Father Ranald Rankin wrote verses for his congregation in Maidert to sing in Gaelic at Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, as it is to this day in Scottish churches.
This carol is a verbal representation of what the Blessed Virgin Mary may have felt while gazing on her Son's face.
The Christ Child's Lullaby
Sung by Sheena Wellington by Narada on the CD Celtic Spirit.(Please buy it. Wonderful music.)
My love my treasured one are you
my sweet and lovely son are you
you are my love my darling you
Unworthy I of you
Alleluia ...
Your mild and gentle eyes proclaim
the loving heart with which you came
a tender helpless tiny babe
with boundless gifts of grace
Alleluia...
King of kings most holy one
God a son eternal one
You are my God and helpless son
My ruler of mankind
Alleluia...
Tags: Francis Christ Child Nativity Lullaby Advent Christmas Franciscan Catholic Love Peace Jesus
