Greetings on this the Octave Day of Christmas Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God
Readings: Nm 6:22-27; Ps 67:2-3, 5, 6, 8; Gal 4:4-7; Lk 2:16-21
Notes: What events are we willing to run ‘in haste’ to?
- A medical emergency.
- Black Friday Sale.
- A reconnection of lost family.
- A reunion of lovers.
The shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger. They were excited to see this marvel foretold them by the Angels.
What did they run in haste to see and experience?
The angel of the Lord appeared to them and the glory of the Lord shone around them.
- I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.
- Today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord.
- You will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.
- A multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying:
“Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
And how did they depart?
- Then the shepherds returned.
- Glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told to them.
How were they changed?
- Their lives forever changed.
- Their work forever changed.
- They did the most important things:
- Ran in haste to see the Lord.
- Ponder what great things the Lord has done.
And what did they know?
- The Peace of the Lord is for them.
- The Favor of the Lord is with them.
- The Messiah has come to save them.
- The Lord himself is here with us and concerned for all of them.
First reading
The LORD bless you and keep you! The LORD let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you! The LORD look upon you kindly and give you peace!
Responsorial Psalm
May God bless us in his mercy.
May the peoples praise you, O God; may all the peoples praise you! May God bless us, and may all the ends of the earth fear him!
Second reading
God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” So you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son then also an heir, through God.
Alleluia Verse
In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets; in these last days, he has spoken to us through the Son.
Gospel Portion
And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. Mary is the Keeper of Human Memory of the Lord. She ponders all the Lord has done and all reception of the Lord, for all ages and all times. Deep in her heart.
Mary, Theotokos, God Bearer, meek and humble brings her Son into the world.
Go, In Haste, to Meet the New Born King!
Ponder what great things the Lord has done!
The LORD bless you and keep you! The LORD let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you! The LORD look upon you kindly and give you peace!
Happy New Year!
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry
Deacon Gerry Palermo 