It is very useful for us, dearly beloved, to remind ourselves of the deeds performed by the Saviour of mankind, provided that we undertake to imitate in action what we venerate in faith. There are lessons to be learned as well as wonders of grace to be admired in the unfolding of the sacred mysteries of Christ, and while we acknowledge him in a spirit of faith we should also be following him in the pattern of our behaviour. Even the small beginnings from which the Son of God started, when he was born of his virgin mother, can instruct us how to make progress in piety. Both human littleness and divine greatness are there to be perceived by upright minds, combined in one and the same person.