Sunday, December 24th
Scripture
Is 62: 1-5
Ps 89: 4-5, 16-17, 22-25
Acts 13: 16-17, 22-25
Mt 1: 1-25
Reflection
All this took place to fulfill what God had said through the prophet:
“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,” which means “God is with us.” Mt. 1:23
On this most holy night the Creator speaks:
I am in a womb I created, in a woman I created to be my mother here on Earth.
Today the journey begins in earnest. The darkness that surrounds me here has an unexpected softness and a quickening expectation of new life.
So much to learn!
The woman – my mother – struggles to give birth – and then there is light, and I am looking at my creation. She breathes – and I breathe – and we are both amazed.
Joseph stands by her, holding her hand and weeping for joy.
So this is love.
So much to learn!
She holds me tenderly and from her I will learn to hold Earth with such tenderness.
So much to learn!
She hugs me tightly and whispers, “I love you so much I would give my life for you.”
So much to learn.
Prayer
Emmanuel, God with us, you know us now in a new way because
you share in our humanity. Walk with us. Teach us to love one another and to treasure the beauty of all your creation.
Personal Challenge
I will watch for “God with us” in each person I meet
and in all of creation.
Sister Jeanne Cmolik, CSJ
Cleveland, OH
