THE LITTLEST CAMEL
St. Francis of Assisi taught that all the gentle creatures that shared the stable with the Christ Child should share, too, in the anniversary of His birth. So, in many countries, it is a tradition to remember the furred and feathered members of the household at Christmas. In Scandinavia, sheaves of grain are tied atop the roof to feed the hungry birds. In Spain, extra rations are given the cattle in remembrance of the cow who warmed the baby Jesus with its breath. In Belgium, and in parts of France, lambs are brought to the church to be blessed on Christmas Eve. According to Syrian legend, one animal present at that first Christmas was blessed in a special way. The three Wise Men had traveled many arduous miles upon their camels before they reached the stable. When, at last, the Magi dismounted to give the Christ Child their gifts, the first two camels also knelt and bowed their heads before Him.…
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