Reading from the Gospel of Isaiah
At the first time the land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephtali was lightly touched: and at the last the way of the sea beyond the Jordan of the Galilee of the Gentiles was heavily loaded. The people that walked in darkness, have seen a great light: to them that dwelt in the region of the shadow of death, light is risen. Thou hast multiplied the nation, and hast not increased the joy. They shall rejoice before thee, as they that rejoice in the harvest, as conquerors rejoice after taking a prey, when they divide the spoils. For the yoke of their burden, and the rod of their shoulder, and the scepter of their oppressor thou hast overcome, as in the day of Median. For every violent taking of spoils, with tumult, and garment mingled with blood, shall be burnt, and be fuel for the fire. For a CHILD IS BORN to us, and a son is given to us, and the government is upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called, Wonderful, Counsellor, God the Mighty, the Father of the world to come, the Prince of Peace.
Chapter: 9, Verses: 1 to 6
Reading from Psalm 96
For the same David, when his land was restored again to him. The Lord hath reigned, let the earth rejoice: let many islands be glad. Clouds and darkness are round about him: justice and judgment are the establishment of his throne. A fire shall go before him and shall burn his enemies round about. His lightning shone forth to the world: the earth saw and trembled. The mountains melted like wax, at the presence of the Lord: at the presence of the Lord of all the earth. The heavens declared his justice: and all people saw his glory. Let them all be confounded that adore graven things, and that glory in their idols. Adore him, all you his angels: Sion heard, and was glad. And the daughters of Juda rejoiced, because of thy judgments, O Lord. For thou art the most high Lord over all the earth: thou art exalted exceedingly above all gods. You that love the Lord, hate evil: the Lord preserveth the souls of his saints, he will deliver them out of the hand of the sinner. Light is risen to the just, and joy to the right of heart. Rejoice, ye just, in the Lord: and give praise to the remembrance of his holiness.
Reading from the Book of Titus
For the grace of God our Saviour hath appeared to all men; Instructing us, that, denying ungodliness and worldly desires, we should live soberly, and justly, and godly in this world, Looking for the blessed hope and coming of the glory of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ, Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and might cleanse to himself a people acceptable, a pursuer of good works.
Chapter: 2, Verses: 11 to 14
Reading from the Gospel of Luke
And it came to pass, that in those days there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that the whole world should be enrolled. This enrolling was first made by Cyrinus, the governor of Syria. And all went to be enrolled, everyone into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem: because he was of the house and family of David, to be enrolled in Mary his espoused wife, who was with child. And it came to pass that when they were there, her days were accomplished, that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him up in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds watching and keeping the night watches over their flock. And behold an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the brightness of God shone round about them; and they feared with a great fear. And the angel said to them: Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, that shall be to all the people: For, this day, is born to you a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord, in the city of David. And this shall be a sign unto you. You shall find the infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army, praising God, and saying: Glory to God in the highest; and on earth peace to men of good will.
Chapter: 2, Verses: 1 to 14
Opening Prayer
Brothers and sisters, as we gather on this joyous feast of the Nativity of the Lord, let us pause to reflect on the profound mystery of God becoming man—a moment that forever changed the course of history and brings light into our darkness.
Main Reflection
Today, we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh, who came to dwell among us. The readings invite us to rejoice in the fulfillment of God’s promise: a Savior born to bring peace, justice, and salvation to all people.
In the first reading, Isaiah proclaims, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.” These words remind us that the birth of Christ is the dawning of a new era. In our own lives, we may sometimes feel surrounded by darkness— whether it be personal struggles, societal unrest, or the challenges of our world. Yet, the light of Christ shines, offering hope and guiding us toward a brighter future.
The Gospel from Luke recounts the humble circumstances of Christ’s birth. Born in a stable and laid in a manger, Jesus entered the world in simplicity and poverty, revealing that God’s glory is not found in grandeur but in humility and love. The shepherds, the first to hear the good news, symbolize the marginalized and ordinary people who are invited to encounter the extraordinary gift of God’s presence.
In his letter to Titus, St. Paul reminds us that the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all. This grace teaches us to reject ungodliness and live upright, holy lives as we await Christ’s glorious return.
Call to Action
The Nativity of the Lord calls us to embrace the message of the angels: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.” How do we live this message in our daily lives?
1. Be Bearers of Light: Just as Christ brought light into the world, we are called to bring His light into our communities. Acts of kindness, forgiveness, and generosity are ways to reflect His love.
2. Embrace Humility: The humility of Christ’s birth challenges us to seek greatness not in power or material wealth but in serving others with love.
3. Spread Peace: In a world often marked by division and conflict, we are called to be peacemakers, beginning with our families, workplaces, and communities.
Conclusion
As we gaze upon the manger, let us renew our commitment to follow Christ, the Prince of Peace. May His birth inspire us to live with faith, hope, and love, sharing the joy of the Gospel with all we meet. Let us rejoice today: “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given.”
Amen.
