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Scripture Reading: Lk. 2:1-14 …The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Christ and Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger”…
Meditation: Try to answer as many questions as possible 1. Before appearing to the shepherds, where did the angel of the Lord appear? Who else had the encounter with the angel? 2. Who is the recipient of the good news from the angel? When people hear of the news, what would they feel? Why? 3. What is the meaning of a ‘savior’? Whose savior is this? What is this savior going to save from? 4. ‘Christ’ means the anointed one. Who were usually anointed in the Old Testament? What kind of things did they have to do? 5. Who was usually called ‘Lord’ in the Old Testament? Can an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes be Christ and Lord? Why?
By Heart: Reflect on this in light of your daily life situation “What does Christmas mean to you?” It is so easy to celebrate Christmas and miss the main point, or become so familiar with the Christian teaching about it that it fails to make its impact. It should have a profound effect upon our lives. It is a feast at which we celebrate God’s entry into our world as man. He entered into our world in order to enter into our lives. He came to share what we are, to give meaning to what we do, to heal wounds, and to give life. - Am I prepared to let him into my life? - Do I see him as a possible intruder to be excluded or as a guest to be welcomed? “Christmas isn’t Christmas till it happens in your heart. Somewhere deep inside you is where Christmas really starts. So give your heart to Jesus, you’ll discover when you do…that Christmas is really Christmas for you
1. For peace in the world especially in Bethlehem and the Middle East, that leaders of states may choose the way that leads to reconciliation 2. For joy in the hearts of sinners, that those who made their Advent confessions discover in a deeper way the love of Jesus for them 3. For peace in broken homes and families, that the birth of the baby Jesus may give them hope and restore their relationships 4. For hope in times of sickness, that the Emmanuel, God-with-us may comfort those who are suffering and in pain Covenant Prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, by your suffering, death and resurrection, you give us new life: a life filled with joy and purpose; a life only you can give it, for you are the source of life. Guide us on our pilgrimage of life, that following you faithfully as your disciples, we may witness boldly to the world, your love and truth. Enlighten our minds and hearts that your Word which we read and meditated may take roots in our lives. Help us not to fall into sin and if we do fall due to our human weakness, bring us back to you for you are the way, the truth and the life. We also pray for all our brothers and sisters, wherever they are, who are committed to this prayer, that their faith may be strengthened, their hope assured and their love fulfilled. In your name we humbly pray. Amen
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