Christmas - Mass During the Night ‘C’

Today, we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, an event that took place about 2,000 years ago. The early followers of Jesus and scholars of the Church looked back at the writings of prophets in the Old Testament and saw predictions about the Messiah, which they believed were fulfilled in Jesus.

After a significant event in the 8th century B.C. - the death of an Assyrian king—the Prophet Isaiah spoke of hope for Israel. He predicted the rise of a new king from David's lineage, whom he called the “prince of peace,” a title Christians later attributed to Jesus.

In one of Paul's Letters to Titus from the New Testament, he emphasized that it is through God's power, exemplified in Jesus, that we can live good lives today and have hope for the future.

The Gospel reading for Christmas Night tells the story of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem. It describes how angels announced his birth to shepherds, who were the first to visit Him. Since King David was once a shepherd, it is symbolic that these humble shepherds met Jesus, who Christians view as David’s spiritual successor. Particularly, if these shepherds took care of sheep meant for sacrifices, it’s fitting they were the first to see Jesus, referred to as the “Lamb of God.”

This Christmas, we should ask ourselves whether we are making room for Jesus in our hearts. It's not enough to criticize the inns of Bethlehem for having no room for Him if we do the same in our lives by ignoring the less fortunate. Reverence for human life and showing respect to others should reflect our recognition of God within everyone. By neglecting or disrespecting others, we overlook those with whom Jesus closely identified. We should reflect daily on which metaphorical doors we have shut to Jesus.

Understanding Christmas as the presence of Jesus - Emmanuel, meaning "God with us" - is crucial. Christmas signifies God’s approach to us, His desire to be with us, and His offer of forgiveness and strength. Deep within us is a hunger for purpose and connection with divine love and support, which Christmas highlights as an affirmation that God is with us in all situations, including times of fear, loneliness, or sadness. Let us embrace the true heart of Christmas by welcoming Jesus as our Savior and guide.