Bethlehem

Bethlehem by Frederick William Faber, 421 pages

Bethlehem is both an extended reflection on the first phase of the Incarnation and a consideration of the nature of true devotion.  Father Faber warns against "spiritual tourism", against a superficial search for a change of scenery as a substitute for living in and through the mysteries.

Fifty years after the publication of Bethlehem, Chesterton had the Virgin Mother say

     And any little maid that walks

     In good thoughts apart,

     May break the guard of the Three Kings

     And see the dear and dreadful things

     I hid within my heart.

This is the plan of Father Faber, following the Incarnation itself from the bosom of the Father to the bosom of the Virgin, journeying to the filthy manger with the wise kings and simple shepherds, the rejoicing angels and the faithful Joseph, then on through the Immaculate Heart to the Sacred Heart and the incomprehensible Love of the Almighty.