👉🏾👉🏾👉🏾 About the feast of #circumsicion of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ
Beloved in Christ, as we gather in the light of the Orthodox faith, let us delve deeply into the profound mystery and significance of the Feast of the Circumcision of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This feast, often overshadowed by other prominent celebrations in the Christian calendar, holds a wealth of spiritual insights and theological richness that beckon our contemplation and reverence.
The Historical and Theological Context
1. The Jewish Law and Its Fulfillment: The Circumcision of Christ, occurring on the eighth day following His Nativity as prescribed by Jewish law (Leviticus 12:3), stands as a pivotal moment in the New Testament. It signifies not the repudiation but the fulfillment of the Old Covenant. Jesus, the Messiah, enters into the history and customs of His people, sanctifying and transcending them.
2. The Significance of the Eighth Day: In Orthodox theology, the eighth day symbolizes the new creation and the eternal Kingdom of God. By being circumcised on the eighth day, Christ, who is Himself the beginning of the new creation, ushers in a new era of grace, surpassing the limitations of the Law and opening the gates to the eternal Sabbath.
Christ's Humility and Obedience
1. The Kenosis of Christ: The act of circumcision, a moment of vulnerability and pain, is a profound testament to the kenosis (self-emptying) of Christ (Philippians 2:7). In this humble submission, we witness the Incarnate God voluntarily conforming to the frailties and customs of humanity.
2. Obedience to the Law: Christ's circumcision is a testament to His perfect obedience to the Law, a cornerstone of His earthly ministry. It prefigures His ultimate submission on the Cross, where He fulfills the Law completely and definitively.
Theological Implications of the Circumcision
1. A Foretaste of the Passion: The shedding of blood during Christ’s circumcision can be seen as a prefiguration of the Passion. It is the first instance of the Incarnate God shedding blood, symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice for the redemption of humanity.
2. The Incarnation and its Mysteries: The event of circumcision reveals the mystery of the Incarnation: God becoming man, not in appearance only but in reality, subjecting Himself to the conditions of human life, yet without sin.
3. The Unity of Christ's Divine and Human Natures: This feast affirms the doctrine of the Hypostatic Union - the seamless and perfect union of Christ’s divine and human natures. His willingness to be circumcised underscores His full humanity, while the miraculous occurrences surrounding it affirm His divinity.
Spiritual Lessons for the Faithful
1. Imitation of Christ’s Humility: For Christians, the Feast of the Circumcision is a call to emulate Christ’s humility and obedience. It invites us to submit our will to God and adhere to His commandments with a spirit of humility and love.
2. Renewal of Our Spiritual Commitment: Just as circumcision was a sign of the covenant between God and His people, this feast reminds us of our own baptismal vows and our continuous call to live in the newness of life in Christ.
3. Contemplation of the Incarnate Christ: This feast encourages deep contemplation of the mystery of the Incarnation. It invites us to marvel at the profound love and condescension of God, who became man to redeem us.
4. The Journey Towards Theosis: In Orthodox spirituality, theosis (deification) is the process of becoming more like God through Christ. The Feast of the Circumcision reminds us of our journey towards this divine calling, guided by Christ’s example of humility and obedience.
In conclusion, the Feast of the Circumcision of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is not merely a historical commemoration but a profound spiritual event that speaks to the heart of the Christian mystery. It encapsulates the humility, obedience, and divine love of Christ and challenges us to live out these virtues in our journey of faith.
(Continues)👇