Today is Dec. 13, the memorial of St. Lucy, virgin and martyr.
We read at today’s Mass, “Thus says the LORD, your redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: I, the LORD, your God, teach you what is for your good, and lead you on the way you should go” (Is 48:17).
Origen’s “Contra Celsum” (Against Celsus) is one of the most significant early Christian apologetic works, written around A.D. 248. It is a detailed, systematic response to the writings of Celsus, a Greek philosopher who authored a critique of Christianity titled “The True Doctrine.” Celsus attacked Christianity on various fronts, including its beliefs, practices and origins, accusing Christians of irrationality and undermining traditional Roman religion and society.
In “Contra Celsum,” Origen defends the Christian faith by addressing Celsus’ arguments point by point, showcasing the intellectual and spiritual coherence of Christianity. He argues for the divinity of Christ, the reliability of Scripture and the rationality of Christian beliefs, while also refuting Celsus’ accusations that Christianity was a religion for the uneducated and socially inferior.
In that work, Origen writes: “With respect to the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, if any one desires, after the prophecy of Micah and after the history recorded in the Gospels by the disciples of Jesus, to have additional evidence from other sources, let him know that, in conformity with the narrative in the Gospel regarding His birth, there is shown at Bethlehem the cave where He was born, and the manger in the cave where He was wrapped in swaddling-clothes. And this sight is greatly talked of in surrounding places, even among the enemies of the faith, it being said that in this cave was born that Jesus who is worshipped and reverenced by the Christians.”
Widespread recognition of Bethlehem as Christ’s birthplace
What is striking about Origen’s observation is his mention that even non-Christians, including enemies of the faith, recognized the site of Jesus’ birth. The cave and manger were not hidden or secret; they were well-known in the region. This widespread acknowledgment adds credibility to the Gospel accounts, showing that the birth of Christ in Bethlehem was not a matter of private belief but a public reality.
This historical evidence invites us to deepen our faith. The birth of Jesus is not just a beautiful story; it is a fact, rooted in the fulfillment of prophecy and witnessed by history. Bethlehem, a small and humble village, became the stage for the greatest event in human history.
Let us pray,
Grant that your people, we pray, almighty God, may be ever watchful for the coming of your only Begotten Son, that, as the author of our salvation Himself has taught us, we may hasten, alert and with lighted lamps, to meet Him when He comes. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
