Humble Shepherds Solemnity ‘C’

This Mass's central message is about embracing the peace and joy that Jesus, our Divine Savior, offers us through a life of love and sharing. St. John gives us a reason to celebrate Christmas: “For God loved the world so much that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him might have eternal life” (John 3:16). This highlights God's love for humanity by sending Jesus, Who was born in Bethlehem, to save us through His life, death, and resurrection.

In the First Reading, the Prophet Isaiah reminds the Jewish people that God is a savior who extends His redemption to their holy city.

In the Second Reading, St. Paul teaches Titus that God's salvation through Jesus is due to His mercy, not because of our actions. Jesus allows us to be spiritually reborn through water and the Holy Spirit, making us children of God and heirs to eternal life.

Today’s Gospel tells us how the shepherds reacted to the angel's message. It invites us to offer our lives to Jesus and show His love to others. We are called to bring Christ into our daily lives and share His love with everyone around us.

As we celebrate Christmas, let us keep Jesus at the center. We should find space for Him in our hearts and lives. It is one thing to admire the Nativity cribs of our churches, it is another to experience Jesus being born in our hearts. We pray for Jesus to be born in each of us, filling us with love, mercy, kindness, and compassion to share with others. Let’s help those around us experience Jesus' love through acts of kindness, forgiveness, and generosity.

Finally, we need to be attentive to how God speaks to us every day, just like the shepherds did. Reflect on the times we’ve felt nudged to act or change our actions for the better. That’s the Holy Spirit guiding us. Are we listening? Are we going to respond like Mary, the shepherds, and the wise men did? Let’s consider how we can actively respond to God's call in our lives.