I bring you news of great joy

Wishing you all a joyful and blessed Christmas!

Christmas Day: 25 December

Gospel Luke 2: 1–14

Now at this time Caesar Augustus issued a decree for a census of the whole world to be taken, and everyone went to their own town to be registered. So Joseph set out from the town ofNazareth in Galilee and travelled up to Judaea, to the town of David called Bethlehem, since he was of David’s House and line, in order to be registered together with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. While they were there the time came for her have her child, and she gave birth to a son, her first born. She wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger because there was no room for them at the inn.

In the countryside close by there were shepherds who lived in the fields and took it in turns to watch their flocks during the night. The angel of the Lord appeared to them and the glory of the Lord shone round them. They were terrified, but the angel said, ‘Do not be afraid. Listen, I bring you news of great joy, a joy to be shared by the whole people. Today in the town of David a saviour has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. And here is a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.’ And suddenly with the angel there was a great throng of the heavenly host, praising God and singing: ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace to all who enjoy his favour. ’

 

Geertgen tot Sint Jans, Birth of Jesus (1484-90)
See more paintings of the Nativity here.

Gospel reflection from St Beuno's Outreach

When I can find a moment for myself, I may want to light a candle, take a few deep breaths and relish the quiet within me and hopefully around me.

I read the account of these familiar events and ponder.

What was it really like for Joseph, Mary, the new born baby, the shepherds?

I try and imagine the countryside, the surroundings, the weather. Perhaps I can see the litter scattered by the crowds travelling to Bethlehem for the census.

I talk to the people I meet. What do I say to them?

Maybe I then feel like focusing on the shepherds and their flocks. What do they do to protect their environment?

When the glory of the Lord shines around them – and me – what is my overwhelming feeling? Joy ... gratitude ... fear ... or ...?

I tell the Lord what is in my heart and slowly go back to my usual activities on this Christmas Day.

Click here to read or listen to a one-minute homily for the Feast of the Holy Family (Sunday 26 December)