Day 9

The Nativity Fast begins every year the day after the Feast of the Apostle Philip. In fact, in years past this fasting season was often referred to as the Filipovka Post, that is, St. Philip's Fast. While this fast has always been a preparation for the Nativity of Christ, its link to St. Philip can be seen to be more than just a coincidence of when it starts.

 

So who was the Apostle Philip? Tradition tells us that Philip was born in Bethsaida beside the Sea of Galilee. He was known for his knowledge and interpretation of the Old Testament. Philip knew the scriptures well enough that when Jesus said to him "follow me", he knew that He was the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies concerning the coming of the Messiah.

 

Philip then found Nathaniel and said to him: "We have found Him of whom Moses in the law, and also the prophets, wrote - Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph. Nathaniel says to Philip "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" and Philip says to him: "Come and see."

 

Come and see...this phrase is a perfect tagline for this Nativity Fast. Through the Fast we are called to spend forty days to come and see the miracle of the Nativity of Christ. We are called to come and see the birth of God in the flesh. We are called to come and see the beginning of our salvation.

 

Philip followed an unknown carpenter from Nazareth because he understood the scriptures and the prophecies they contain, and through his knowledge he recognized the Son of God in the flesh. We have the gift of all that has taken place, in the New Testament and in the Church. We have Church Fathers and theologians who have laid out for us the fulfillment of these prophecies.

 

Certainly, every day God says to us: "Come follow me" Let us follow Him to that manger on that night in Bethlehem. Let us once again witness God becoming Man.

 

Truly...Let us come and see!

 

In Christ

Fr. David