Reflection
As the Christmas season, celebrations and gatherings took over, I contemplated this past year’s experiences and moments of God’s presence. This was my first year of retirement, bringing times of joy and longing for associations with trusted coworkers I call friends. It also brought time to be more in the moment, enjoying the company of new acquaintances and fellow Passionists. These perspectives allowed me the time and freedom needed to better appreciate the entire Christmas season one day at a time. Several things stood out in today’s readings. The first was that John repeated the same message to adults (fathers) twice. “I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning.”
If we ourselves have come to this realization, we should rejoice and proclaim Emmanuel!
In the second reading, Luke recounts the story of the prophetess Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, from the tribe of Asher. An old woman, spending her time awaiting the coming of a new king. Stepping out of her private waiting, she comes forward and gives thanks to God, speaking of the child Jesus to all awaiting redemption. Emmanuel, God is with us, from the beginning of time!
Do not let the season pass from your hearts because shopping and the bustle of the season have expired. Bask in the holiness of this 6th Day in the Octave of Christmas. Celebrate the fact that we are saved by his birth, death and resurrection. Bring this joy to others as we live out our lives. Merry Christmas!
