Christmas Day
25 December 2024
First Reading: Isaiah 52:7-10
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 97(98):1-6
Second Reading: Hebrews 1:1-6
Gospel: John 1:1-1
Reflection
By: Grace B. Madriñan
On the 9th and last day of our Simbang Gabi, the presiding priest asked us, " What has changed?" The crowd seeming to be unclear of what he meant, he repeated, " Now that you have completed the 9 days of Simbang Gabi, what has changed?"
"What does Simbang Gabi meant to you? Is it a form of bragging rights? A traditiom that you had to fulfill so that you can wish on the 9th day? If the Advent preparations did not make you more loving, grateful or hopeful,¹ then you missed the message."
"And the Word became flesh
and made his dwelling among us,
and we saw his glory,
the glory as of the Father’s only Son,
full of grace and truth." - John 1:14
This is the culmination of this season's message. The reason which extends beyond the celebrations. Today, God chose to send His Son and make his dwelling among us. And Jesus' birth is the first day towards salvation.
If we truly believe in body, mind and soul of this truth, then the message of peace and hope will transcend this season. As we start the Jubilee year, may we be the pilgrims and champions of this message as God intends us to be.
Prayer
Father God, we are truly grateful for sending Your Son to us to be with us and share in our human sufferings. May we ascend beyond our frailties and be a pillar of hope for our distraught brothers and sisters. This we ask in Jesus' name. Amen.
