In Search of Jesus

 

 Gospel

Matthew 2:1-12

1 When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod, behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.” 3 When King Herod heard this, he was greatly troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 Assembling all the chief priests and the scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 They said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it has been written through the prophet: 6 And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; since from you shall come a ruler, who is to shepherd my people Israel.” 7 Then Herod called the magi secretly and ascertained from them the time of the star’s appearance. 8 He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search diligently for the child. When you have found him, bring me word, that I too may go and do him homage.” 9 After their audience with the king they set out. And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. 10 They were overjoyed at seeing the star, 11 and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed for their country by another way.

Historical Background

This passage unfolds during the reign of Herod the Great, a ruler known for both his architectural achievements and his deep insecurity about threats to his power. 

The Magi, likely astrologers or scholars from Persia or Babylon, were respected seekers of wisdom. Their journey was long, costly, and dangerous. Following a star was not unusual in ancient cultures—astronomical signs were often interpreted as divine messages.

Their arrival in Jerusalem caused a stir because any talk of a “new king” threatened Herod’s fragile hold on authority. Yet these foreigners—outsiders to Israel’s covenant—were the first to recognize Jesus’ kingship.

Theological Context

Jesus is revealed to the nations. The Magi represent the Gentiles. From the very beginning, Matthew shows that Christ’s mission is universal.

The star symbolizes divine guidance. God meets people where they are—even through their own cultural symbols and ways of seeking truth.

The gifts reveal Jesus’ identity: Gold – His kingship, Frankincense – His divinity, Myrrh – His future suffering and death

Two responses to Jesus appear. For The Magi is openness, worship, and obedience while for Herod is fear, hostility, and self-protection. This contrast invites every reader to examine their own heart.

Lessons for Learning

God guides sincere seekers. Even if our path is imperfect or winding, God honors the heart that truly seeks Him.

Worship requires offering. The Magi didn’t come empty-handed. Our “gifts” today may be time, humility, forgiveness, or service.

Not everyone welcomes Christ. Some resist Him because His presence disrupts their comfort or control. We must choose which response we imitate.

Obedience protects us. The Magi listened to God’s warning and “went home by another way.” Sometimes God redirects us for our safety and growth.

Reflection for Today

Where is the “star” in your life right now—those subtle nudges, invitations, or signs that God is drawing you closer? And like the Magi, what gift can you lay before Jesus today? 

Maybe it’s a worry you’ve been carrying. Maybe it’s gratitude. Maybe it’s a habit you’re ready to surrender. Let this be a day of seeking, finding, and offering.

“The Road of the Magi”

A star rose quiet in the night,  

A whisper in the sky of gold;  

And hearts that longed for truth and light  

Set out on roads both brave and old.  

Through desert winds and shadowed lands,  

They followed hope they could not see,  

Until the Child in gentle hands  

Revealed God’s love in poverty.  

They knelt, they offered, they adored—  

Their treasures small beside His grace;  

And left by paths unknown before,  

With heaven’s peace upon their face.  

Lord, lead us too by light divine,  

To seek, to bow, to make You mine.

Prayer to Our Lord Jesus Christ

Lord Jesus, 

Like the Magi, I come before You today with a seeking heart. Guide me by Your light when my path feels uncertain. Free me from the fears that make me cling to my own plans and give me the courage to follow where You lead.

Receive the gifts I offer—my time, my struggles, my hopes, my love. Let Your presence shine in the life You have in me so that others may find You through me. Be my King, my God, and my Savior, now and always. 

Amen.

Pericope:

I: The Infancy Narrative

THE VISIT OF THE MAGI

Matthew 2:1-12

Gospel Acclamation

We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.

Reflection Source

Conversation with Copilot

Lamb of God

Gospel

John 1:29-34 

29 John the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. 30 He is the one of whom I said, A man is coming after me who ranks ahead of me because he existed before me.’ 311 did not know him, but the reason why I came baptizing with water was that he might be made known to Israel.” 32 John testified further, saying, “I saw the Spirit come down like a dove from the sky and remain upon him. 33 1 did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘On whomever you see the Spirit come down and remain, he is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ 34 Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God.”

Historical Background

This passage takes place at the Jordan River, where John the Baptist is preaching repentance and baptizing crowds. This moment happens early in Jesus’ public life—before any miracles, before calling the disciples, before teaching in synagogues.

John the Baptist had already gained a reputation as a prophet, and many wondered if he might be the Messiah. Into this atmosphere of expectation, Jesus appears quietly among the crowd. John recognizes Him not because of family ties, but because of a divine revelation: “The one on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain…”

This scene echoes Old Testament imagery—especially the Passover lamb, the suffering servant of Isaiah, and the Spirit hovering over the waters in Genesis. It’s a moment of unveiling.

Theological Context

John identifies Jesus not as a political liberator but as the sacrificial Lamb who takes away sin. This title unites the Passover lamb, the daily temple sacrifices, and Isaiah’s servant who bears the sins of many.

In the Old Testament, the Spirit comes upon prophets temporarily. Here, the Spirit remains on Jesus—signifying a permanent anointing and revealing Him as the true Messiah.

John’s mission is to point beyond himself. His humility is theological: salvation is not in the preacher, but in the One he announces. His baptism is symbolic; Jesus’ baptism is transformative. He brings a new creation, a new life.

Learning Lessons

Jesus is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. He is the sacrifice, the ransom, the price that was paid for our souls. He is the light, the truth, the way that leads us to the Father's throne. He is the love, the grace, the mercy that covers all our faults. Praise Jesus the king, the lord, the savior who reigns in glory and power. He is the lion, the warrior, the conqueror who defeats the enemy's hour. He is the alpha, the omega, the beginning and the end of all. Recognize Jesus in your life. He is your friend, your brother, your shepherd who knows you by your name. He is you healer, your redeemer, your deliverer who sets you free from chains. Jesus is the risen, the living, the eternal one who lives in us today.

Reflection for Today

We often look for God in dramatic signs, but Jesus appears in the ordinary flow of life—walking toward John, unnoticed by the crowd. Recognition requires openness, attentiveness, and humility.

John’s words, “Behold the Lamb of God,” are not just a proclamation; they are an invitation. To behold is to pause. To behold is to let your gaze rest on Christ long enough for your heart to soften. To behold is to let God reveal who Jesus truly is—not who we expect Him to be.

And like John, we are called to witness—not by shouting, but by pointing quietly toward grace through our lives. Maybe today, the invitation is simple: Slow down. Look again. Let the Lamb of God draw near.

He walked from the quiet edges of morning,  

Dust on His feet, light in His eyes.  

No trumpet sounded, no crowd turned—  

Only a prophet’s heart stirred in recognition.  

“Behold,” John whispered to the waiting world,  

“The Lamb who gathers every scattered soul.”  

The Spirit descended like a breath of dawn,  

Resting, remaining—  

A promise kept, a new creation begun.  

And in that stillness by the river’s edge,  

Heaven leaned close  

To show us the One  

Who carries us home.

Prayer to our Lord Jesus Christ

Lord Jesus, 

You are the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. You have loved me with an everlasting love and given me eternal life. You have called me by name and made me your own. You have filled me with your Spirit and empowered me to live for you. Help me to remain in you, as you remain in me. Help me to abide in your word, as your word abides in me. Help me to obey your commands, as you obey the Father. Help me to love your people, as you love me.

You have cleansed me by your blood and made me righteous in your sight. You have forgiven me all my sins and healed me of all my diseases. You have delivered me from the power of darkness and transferred me to your kingdom. Help me to walk in your light, as you are the light of the world. Help me to bear your fruit, as you are the true vine. Help me to glorify your name, as you are the King of kings.

You have conquered death and hell and risen from the grave. You have ascended to heaven and seated at the right hand of God. You have interceded for me and prepared a place for me. Help me to hope in your return, as you are coming soon. Help me to worship you in spirit and truth, as you are worthy of all praise. Help me to follow you wherever you go, as you are the lamb of God. 

Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Book of Signs

JOHN THE BAPTIST'S TESTIMONY TO JESUS

John 1:29-34

Gospel Acclamation

The Word of God became flesh and dwelt among us. To those who accepted him he gave power to become the children of God.

Reflection Source:

Copilot with Bing Chat

Published:

January 03, 2025, 5:46 AM

January 03, 2024, 8:10 AM

Recognize Jesus

Gospel

John 1:19-28

19 This is the testimony of John. When the Jews from Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to him to ask him, “Who are you?” 20 He admitted and did not deny it, but admitted, “I am not the Christ.”   So they asked him, “What are you then? Are you Elijah?” And he said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.” 22 So they said to him, “Who are you, so we can give an answer to those who sent us? What do you have to say for yourself?” 23 He said: I am the voice of one crying out in the desert, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,’ as Isaiah the prophet said.” 24 Some Pharisees were also sent. 25 They asked him, “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Christ or Elijah or the Prophet?” 26 John answered them, “I baptize with water; but there is one among you whom you do not recognize, 27 the one who is coming after me, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to untie.” 28 This happened in Bethany across the Jordan, where John was baptizing.

Historical Background

This passage takes place in Bethany across the Jordan, where John the Baptist was baptizing. At this time, priests and levites were sent from Jerusalem to investigate John because his growing influence stirred concern among religious authorities.

Judaism in the first century expected several eschatological figures. The Messiah (a Davidic king), Elijah (who was expected to return before the Day of the Lord), and  “The Prophet” like Moses from Deuteronomy 18:15.

John denies being any of these, insisting he is only “the voice crying out in the wilderness” from Isaiah 40:3 — the one preparing the way for the Lord. His baptism symbolized repentance and readiness, evoking themes of purification and a new exodus for Israel.

Theological Context

John’s identity is rooted not in titles but in mission. He points away from himself and toward Christ. The Church sees him as the model of authentic witness — humble, truthful, Christ-centered. He says he is unworthy to untie Jesus’ sandal strap — a task reserved for the lowest servant. This expresses the infinite gap between the human messenger and the divine Messiah.

John’s baptism with water prepares hearts for the baptism of the Spirit that Jesus will bring. His ministry is transitional — the dawn before the sunrise.

Jesus was already present, but unrecognized. This theme of hidden glory runs throughout John’s Gospel.

Learning Lessons

Jesus is one among you whom you do not recognize. He walks beside you on the road, He shares your joys and cries, He listens to your hopes and fears, He knows your deepest needs, He offers you His grace and peace, He plants his kingdom seeds. Jesus works with you in daily tasks, shows you what is wise, guides you with His gentle hand, teaches you His ways, blesses you with gifts and skills, and fills your life with praise. 

Jesus is Your Lord and Savior who loves you with a perfect love, calls you by your name, waits for you to turn to Him, longs to be your friend, invites you to His table, and wants your love to mend. Come to Jesus and recognize His presence over your life.

Reflection for Today

Who am I pointing to — myself or Christ? John teaches us that true greatness is found in humility and mission, not recognition. In a world obsessed with identity, status, and self-promotion, John reminds us that we are not the center — Christ is.

Do I recognize Jesus already present in my life? Like the priests and Levites, we can be religious yet fail to recognize the Lord standing quietly in our midst — in the poor, in silence, in Scripture, in the sacraments, in the ordinary.

Am I preparing the way for Him? Every act of kindness, forgiveness, and repentance “makes straight the way of the Lord” in our hearts and communities.

Humility frees us. John’s freedom comes from knowing who he is and who he is not. When we stop trying to be the savior and simply become His witness, peace follows.

Jesus is in the stranger, knocking at the door, 

who asks for food and shelter, and a little more 

as if you were the least of these, the hungry and the poor 

till at last your gracious welcome makes His presence sure. 

Jesus is in the scripture, speaking through the word, 

who tells the ancient stories, and the truths they stirred 

as if you were the living Word, the lamp unto our feet 

till at last your Spirit opens our minds to all we meet. 

Jesus is in the glory, shining from above, 

who fills the earth with beauty, and the heavens with love 

as if you were the King of kings, the Lord of all creation 

till at last your splendor dazzles our eyes with admiration.

Prayer to Our Lord Jesus Christ

Lord Jesus Christ, 

You who were already standing among Your people unrecognized, open my eyes today to see Your presence in my life. 

Give me the humility of John the Baptist — to point not to myself but always to You. Straighten what is crooked in my heart, cleanse what needs repentance, and prepare me to welcome You more deeply. Make me a faithful witness of Your light, a voice that leads others toward Your love. 

You are the One who comes after all my efforts, yet You are greater than all I could ever do. Jesus, be the center of my life today and always. 

Amen

Pericope:

II: The Book of Signs

JOHN THE BAPTIST'S TESTIMONY TO HIMSELF

John 1:22-28

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

January 02, 2025, 6:31 AM

Reflecting on them in her heart

 

Gospel 

Luke 2:16-21

16 The shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger. 17 When they saw this, they made known the message that had been told them about this child. 18 All who heard it were amazed by what had been told them by the shepherds. 19 And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. 20 Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told to them. 21 When eight days were completed for his circumcision, he was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.  

Historical Background

This passage unfolds in the humble setting of Bethlehem, during the census under Caesar Augustus. Shepherds—among the simplest and often overlooked members of society—receive the angelic announcement of the Messiah’s birth. They hurry to find Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus lying in a manger, exactly as the angel said.

On the eighth day, Jesus is circumcised according to Jewish Law, and He is formally given the name Jesus, the name announced by the angel before His conception. This moment marks His full entry into the covenantal life of Israel.

Theological Context

God reveals Himself to the humble. Shepherds, not kings or priests, are the first to witness the Messiah.

Mary’s contemplative heart models the interior life—she “kept all these things and reflected on them in her heart.”

The Name of Jesus (“Yeshua,” meaning God saves) reveals His mission from the beginning. Circumcision signifies Jesus’ obedience to the Law, showing that He fully enters human history and the covenant to redeem it from within.

Learning Lessons

God often speaks in quiet, unexpected places. Humility opens the heart to divine revelation. Like Mary, we are invited not just to witness God’s work but to ponder it deeply.

The name of Jesus carries power, mercy, and identity—calling us to trust in His saving love. True discipleship begins with small acts of obedience and openness.

Reflection for the Day

Maybe today is an invitation to slow down and “go in haste” toward the places where God is quietly present—ordinary tasks, simple conversations, small acts of kindness. And like Mary, you might hold certain moments in your heart, letting God speak through them gently.

What is God showing you today that is worth pondering?

The Name That Holds the Dawn

In the stillness of a Bethlehem morn,  

Where straw and silence softly meet,  

The Shepherd-King is gently born,  

Salvation wrapped in tiny feet.  

The humble come, the angels sing,  

Heaven bends low to kiss the earth;  

And Mary keeps within her heart  

The mysteries blooming at His birth.  

O holy Name, so small, so bright—  

A whisper strong enough to save;  

Jesus, Light that breaks the night,  

Love that rises from the grave.

Prayer to Our Lord Jesus Christ

Lord Jesus, 

Your name is sweetness, strength, and salvation. As the shepherds sought You with open hearts, teach me to seek You in the quiet places of my day.

As Mary pondered Your mysteries, give me a heart that listens deeply and treasures Your presence in every moment. May Your holy name be my refuge, my peace, and my joy. Guide my steps today and let my life reflect the love You brought into the world in Bethlehem.

Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Infancy Narrative

THE VISIT OF THE SHEPHERDS / THE CIRCUMCISION AND NAMING OF JESUS

Luke 2:15-20 / 21

Gospel Acclamation

In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets; in these last days, he has spoken to us through the Son. 

The Word and the Light

Gospel

John 1:1-18

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things came to be through him, and without him nothing came to be. What came to be 4 through him was life, and this life was the light of the human race; 5 the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. 6 A man named John was sent from God. 7 He came for testimony, to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. 8 He was not the light, but came to testify to the light. 9 The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and the world came to be through him, but the world did not know him. 11 He came to what was his own, but his own people did not accept him. 12 But to those who did accept him he gave power to become children of God, to those who believe in his name, 13 who were born not by natural generation nor by human choice nor by a man’s decision but of God. 14 And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father’s only-begotten Son, full of grace and truth. 15 John testified to him and cried out, saying, “This was he of whom I said, ‘The one who is coming after me ranks ahead of me because he existed before me.’” 16 From his fullness we have all received, grace in place of grace, 17 because while the law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God. The only-begotten Son, God, who is at the Father’s side, has revealed him. 

Historical Background

The Gospel of John was written later than the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke), likely between AD 90–100. It was addressed to a Christian community wrestling with questions about Jesus’ identity, especially in a world shaped by both Jewish monotheism and Greek philosophical thought.

John’s Prologue (1:1–18) is often called the “Hymn to the Logos.” Many scholars believe it may have been an early Christian hymn or creed that John incorporated and expanded.

The community was facing internal divisions (e.g., early Gnostic ideas) and external pressures. John responds by presenting a majestic, cosmic vision of Christ that leaves no room for reducing Him to a mere prophet, teacher, or spiritual force.

Theological Context

John 1:1–18 is one of the richest theological passages in all of Scripture. Key themes include “The Logos” (The Word)”. “In the beginning was the Word” echoes Genesis 1, placing Jesus before creation, not as a creature but as eternally existing.

In Greek thought, Logos meant the rational principle ordering the universe. In Jewish thought, Word (dabar) meant God’s active, creative, saving power. John unites both: Jesus is God’s eternal self-expression, the One through whom all things were made.

The Word Was With God, and the Word Was God. This affirms both distinction (with God) and unity (was God). It lays the foundation for Trinitarian theology.

The Word Became Flesh. This is the heart of the Incarnation. God does not merely speak from afar; He enters human history, taking on our fragility. “Dwelt among us” literally means “pitched His tent”—evoking the Tabernacle where God’s glory dwelled with Israel.

Light and Darkness. Light symbolizes revelation, life, truth, salvation. Darkness symbolizes ignorance, sin, resistance. The Light shines continuously, and darkness cannot overcome it.

Grace and Truth. Through Moses came the Law; through Jesus comes grace upon grace—the fullness of God’s faithful love. Jesus reveals the Father in a way no one else can.

Learning Lessons

Jesus is the Word, and He is divine. He was with God from the beginning and is God. Everything was made through Jesus, and nothing exists without Him. He is the light that shines in the darkness, bringing hope and guidance to all humanity. 

Our existence and sustenance come from Jesus. He is the source of life. In Him, we find true life, both physical and spiritual. Let us seek His light in our daily walk and to reflect His light to others.

Reflection for the Day

Since it’s Christmas morning where you are, this passage feels especially alive. John doesn’t begin with a manger, shepherds, or angels. He begins with eternity. He wants you to see that the Child born in Bethlehem is the eternal Word, the Light that existed before the sun, the Life that breathes life into all creation. And yet— this eternal Word became flesh. He entered the world not in power but in vulnerability. He pitched His tent among us, choosing to dwell in the ordinary, the imperfect, the fragile.

Today’s invitation is simple but profound. Let the Light enter your tent. In your work, in your relationships, in your quiet moments and in the places that feel shadowed or uncertain. The Light does not force its way in. It shines, gently but persistently. It asks only to be welcomed. And when you welcome Him, you receive what John calls: “grace upon grace.” Not just enough grace— but overflowing, renewing, transforming grace.

God is not distant. He is the God who comes close, who takes on flesh, who dwells with you. His light is stronger than any darkness you face.

In the beginning, the Word was there, 

With God, in divine love and care. 

The Word was God, eternal and true, 

In the beginning, with God, He knew.

Through Him, all things came to be, 

The stars, the earth, the sky, the sea. 

In Him was life, pure and bright, 

And that life was the light of all mankind.

The light that shines in the darkest night, 

Guiding us with its radiant light. 

The Word made flesh, our Savior dear, 

Bringing hope, casting out fear.

In the beginning, the Word was there, 

With God, in divine love and care. 

Through Him, all things were made, 

In His light, we are forever saved.

Prayer to our Lord Jesus Christ

Lord Jesus, 

We come before You in awe and reverence, acknowledging Your divine nature and eternal presence. In the beginning, You were with God, and through You, all things were made.

We thank You for being the source of life, The light that shines in the darkness, guiding us with Your truth and love. Help us to recognize Your presence in our lives, and to live in the light of Your grace.

Grant us the wisdom to see Your hand in creation, and the strength to follow Your path. May we reflect Your light to those around us, bringing hope and joy to a world in need.

Amen.

Pericope:

I: Prologue

PROLOGUE

John 1:1-18

Gospel Acclamation

The Word of God became flesh and dwelt among us. To those who accepted him he gave power to become the children of God. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

December 25, 2025, 3:30 PM

December 31, 2024, 8:15 AM 

Grace and Growth

Gospel

Luke 2:36-40

36 There was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage, 37 and then as a widow until she was eighty four. She never left the temple, but worshipped night and day with fasting and prayer. 38 And coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem. 39 When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions of the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. 40 The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him. 

Historical Background

This passage tells the quiet story of Anna, the prophetess—one of Scripture’s most beautiful portraits of faithfulness.

Anna belonged to a small group of devout Jews who were waiting for God to act again after centuries of silence. Israel had lived under foreign rule for generations—Babylon, Persia, Greece, and now Rome. Many people longed for liberation, but only a few waited with prayerful hope. Women prophets were rare in Israel’s history, so Anna’s presence in the Temple signals something important: God was stirring again, and He chose to reveal His work to the humble and the watchful.

Theological Context 

Anna embodies Israel at its best—poor, widowed, vulnerable, yet faithful. Her life of fasting and prayer shows what true worship looks like: a heart turned toward God, even when life has been hard. 

When she sees Jesus, she immediately recognizes Him as the fulfillment of God’s promise. Luke is showing us that revelation comes not through power or status, but through purity of heart and perseverance. And by placing Anna alongside Simeon, Luke highlights that men and women alike stand as witnesses to the Messiah.

Learning Lessons

Growth and development should be holistic, encompassing physical, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions. We should pursue balanced growth in all areas and strive for continuous improvement in all aspects of our lives. Let us seek strength and wisdom in our own lives, through learning, experience, and reliance on God.

God's grace is available to us, guiding and supporting us in our journey to focus on continuous growth, seek strength and wisdom, rely on God's grace, and pursue holistic development. 

Reflection for Today 

Anna reminds us that nothing offered to God is wasted—not our waiting, not our tears, not our long seasons of silence. She spent decades in prayer, and in one moment she saw what her heart had been longing for. Sometimes God’s answers arrive quietly, like a child in a temple, and only those who have been listening notice. 

Maybe today is an invitation to keep our hearts open, to stay faithful in the small things, and to trust that God is already moving in ways we may not yet see. Anna’s joy came not from striving, but from staying close to God. Ours can too.

And the child grew, both strong and wise, 

With wisdom shining in his eyes. 

The grace of God upon him lay, 

Guiding him through each new day.

In strength and spirit, he did rise, 

A beacon bright beneath the skies. 

With every step, in every way, 

God's grace and love would lead his way.

From humble start to heights unknown, 

In wisdom's light, his path was shown. 

And the child grew, in grace and might, 

A testament to God's pure light.

Prayer to our Lord Jesus Christ

Lord Jesus, 

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude, for the example of Your growth and strength. Just as You were filled with wisdom and grace, we seek to grow in Your likeness each day.

Grant us the strength to face life's challenges, and the wisdom to make choices that honor You. May Your grace be upon us, guiding our steps, and filling our hearts with Your love and peace.

Help us to grow in faith and understanding, and to reflect Your light in all that we do. May we always seek Your presence and find comfort in Your everlasting grace.

Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Infancy Narrative

THE PRESENTATION IN THE TEMPLE / THE RETURN TO NAZARETH

Luke 2:22-38 / 30-40

Gospel Acclamation

A holy day has dawned upon us. Come, you nations, and adore the Lord. Today a great light has come upon the earth. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

December 30, 2024, 11:09 AM 

Do What the Law Requires

 

Gospel

Luke 2:22-35

22 When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, the parents of Jesus took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, 23 just as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord, 24 and to offer the sacrifice of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons, in accordance with the dictate in the law of the Lord. 25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, awaiting the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Christ of the Lord. 27 He came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform the custom of the law in regard to him, 28 he took him into his arms and blessed God, saying: 29 “Lord, now let your servant go in peace, your word has been fulfilled: 30 my own eyes have seen your salvation, 31 which you prepared in sight of all the peoples, 32 a light for revel you to the nations, and glory for your people Israel.” 33 The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him; 34 and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted 35 (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

Historical Background

This passage takes place in the Jerusalem Temple about forty days after Jesus’ birth. Jewish law stipulates two requirements: *purification after childbirth* (Leviticus 12) and the *presentation of the firstborn son* (Exodus 13).  Every firstborn male belonged to the Lord and had to be consecrated.

The offering of two turtledoves or pigeons shows that Mary and Joseph were poor—an early sign that Jesus enters the world in humility and simplicity.

In the Temple, they meet Simeon, a righteous and devout man who had been waiting for the “consolation of Israel.” The Holy Spirit had revealed to him that he would not die before seeing the Messiah. When he sees Jesus, he recognizes Him instantly and proclaims the famous canticle Nunc Dimittis.

Theological Context

Jesus as fulfillment of the Law Even as an infant, He is already the meeting point between God’s promises and Israel’s hopes.

The Holy Spirit’s active role Simeon is guided, inspired, and moved by the Spirit—showing that the Messiah’s arrival is a Spirit-filled event.

Universal salvation Simeon declares Jesus “a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory for Israel.” Salvation is not limited to one people; it is for all nations.

Prophecy of suffering Simeon tells Mary that a “sword will pierce your own soul.” The shadow of the Cross appears even in the joy of the Presentation.

Learning Lessons

God fulfills His promises, sometimes quietly and slowly. Recognizing Jesus requires openness of heart.

Holiness is often found in ordinary obedience. Joy and suffering often coexist in the Christian journey. 

Reflection for the Day

Maybe today is an invitation to wait with hope, to show up faithfully in the ordinary and to let the Holy Spirit nudge our hearts toward recognition. This is the time to trust that even when life holds both joy and sorrow, Christ is present in all of it.

Light in the Waiting

In the hush of the Temple courts,  

an old man lifts a child—  

and time itself exhales.

Promises ripen in his trembling hands,  

a lifetime of longing  

suddenly warm and breathing.

Light has come,  

not with thunder,  

but with the softness of a mother’s arms.

And somewhere deep within,  

a sword begins its silent shape—  

love always carves its mark.

O Christ,  

in my waiting,  

let me recognize You  

when You come quietly.

Prayer to our Lord Jesus Christ

Lord Jesus, 

You who were carried into the Temple in humility, shine Your light into the hidden corners of my life. Teach me to wait with the patience of Simeon and to welcome Your presence with the openness of Mary. 

When joy and sorrow mingle in my journey, hold my heart steady in Your peace. Let Your Spirit guide my steps today, that I may see You, love You, and follow You in every ordinary moment. 

Amen.

Pericope

II: The Infancy Narrative

THE PRESENTATION IN THE TEMPLE

Luke 2:22-35

Gospel Acclamation 

A light of revelation to the Gentiles and glory for your people Israel.

Reflection Source

Conversation with Copilot