Alphonsus of Aragon, [King Alfonso V of Aragón], whose piety was equal to his greatness, went to visit one of the nobles of his kingdom a little before the festival of Christmas.
This nobleman, although possessed of much wealth, neglected his religious duties, and was leading a very sinful life. When he heard that his sovereign was about to honour him with a visit, he made great preparations, and received him with all the honour due to his dignity. The King was pleased with these marks of respect, and when about to leave, he said to him: “Most noble lord, you have given me a magnificent reception, and I thank you for it with all my heart; but in a few days a nobler King than I will come and ask you to give Him a suitable welcome. Jesus Christ, the King of kings, on His Christmas festival, will invite you to receive Him into your heart in the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. Therefore, I beseech you, go now and prepare your heart to receive Him, and if you adorn it as sumptuously as you have adorned your palace for my reception, you may expect from Him a great share of His heavenly graces.”
The Adoration of the Magi c. 1700, Anonymous
The nobleman took these words to heart, and on Christmas Day had the happiness of receiving his Lord and Master worthily in Holy Communion, to the joy and edification of all the faithful.
The Catechism In Examples, Book IV, by Chisholm, D, pg 149-150
Short Stories on Honor, Chivalry, and the World of Nobility—no. 758
