Christmas Weekday
In a sense, today’s readings are about faith. The first reading is about having faith that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. Then, the Gospel is about Jesus’ baptism and brings us to the moment in which we learn that Jesus is the Son of God, “‘You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased,” (Mark 1:11). Through faith, we become daughters and sons of God. When reading this Gospel passage, have you ever imagined that God is telling you that you are God’s beloved child? Perhaps, as you begin to reflect on today’s readings, you can put yourself in the story and imagine God saying to you: “[Your name,] you are my beloved child; with you I am well pleased.” How does that make you feel? For me, I am taken aback especially at the well pleased part. To me, it seems that there’s more to ding me on than to be pleased about. However, I am comforted by the love God has for me and how God is always ready to embrace me and us and take us back when we return to God like in the parable of the prodigal son. What does being a child of God mean to you?
From today’s Gospel, I see another aspect of faith. Faith enables us to point to God like John the Baptist who told his disciples that “one mightier than I is coming after me,” (Mark 1:7). It is still the Christmas season, a time when Jesus Christ is born in our hearts. His life within us allows us to bring him to others so that they too can experience the deep love of God. How will you continue to carry the experience of Christmas joy throughout the year?
Closing Prayer:
Our hearts are on fire today with love of You, O Lord. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we pray for the strength and courage to share the love that we feel today, tomorrow and each day, with those who need it most, helping to build Your kingdom here on earth. Amen
-From Hallow