December 25, 2016
Readings from the Mass at Dawn
First Reading: Isaiah 62: 11- 12
Second Reading: Paul to Titus: 3:4 – 7
Gospel: Luke 2: 15 – 20
The Mystery of the Incarnation, like the other mysteries of our faith, are often captured in the lyrics of a hymn. The well known carol, “ What Child is This” touches our hearts and spirits with the reality, that the Creator of heaven and earth, the King of the Universe, manifests his presence in the simplicity of a Babe resting in his mother’s arms.
“ What Child is this, who laid to rest
On Mary’s lap, is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping.
Haste, haste, to bring him laud,
the Babe, the Son of Mary .”
St. Augustine, in his Sermons, 189,3, deepens our understanding and the challenging implications of the Mystery of the Incarnation.
“His Mother carried him in her womb, may we carry him in our hearts;
the Virgin became pregnant with the Incarnation of Christ, may our hearts become
pregnant with faith in Christ; she brought forth the Savior, may our souls bring forth
salvation and praise.
May our souls be not sterile, but fertile for God.”
May we all become pregnant with the true Love, Joy and Peace of Christmas, and share HIM our whole life long!
Enjoy a Holy, Healthy, Merry Christmas !!!
Sr. Gerrie Contento, M.P.F.