Evangelize the Easy Way -
with Icons by Msgr. Anthony La
Femina
First: Explaining how the
Annunciation Icon is appropriate for Christmas
The Incarnation
Initial, Matthew 1:18
Each generation will tend to have its own
particular strengths, but it will also tend to have its own particular
vulnerabilities or weaknesses. Satan seeks to divide the generations,
but the wise Christian seeks to strengthen himself by examining how God
manifested his greatness in previous generations.
What was the favorite scripture verse was for
those living in the Middle Ages?
I propose that it was the Incarnation Initial,
Matthew 1:18. In the Middle Ages the monks had to transcribe the Bible
by hand. The task was very time consuming and expensive. However, each
of the first verses of the four Gospels got its own special page of
elaborate calligraphy. Since, the four Gospels hold a special
prominence this is understandable. However, there is one other verse
that got this special treatment, Matthew 1:18.
For example we see this in
Lindisfarne Gospels
Book of Kells
Canterbury Codex Aureus,
second
Matthew 1:18
“Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother
Mary was ... found with child through the holy Spirit.”
It is commonly referred to as the Incarnation
Initial which begins the Nativity story. I believe the best pictorial
representation of this Bible verse is this icon. Most pictures of the
Nativity show Mary and Baby Jesus, but they often fail in depicting the
Holy Spirit and how this is the child of God. This icon succeeds quite
beautifully in this regard.
Second: Explain the Spiritual Significance of the Annunciation Icon
Sometimes using words like abortion or pro-life
are necessary. However, when some people hear words like “abortion” or
even “pro-life” their emotions sky rocket and their minds shut down.
They go into defense mode. See how to lay down the foundation for
the
Pro-Life message while avoiding the use of those words, and the explosive
confrontations that can result. Do this by beginning an interesting
discussion about Spring. Some details will probably surprise you.
Why
Do We Call Spring “Spring” ?
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