Christmas Reflection

The incredible joy of this day is proclaimed in today's readings! The Angels have just departed the shepherds after proclaiming the birth of their savior! The shepherds in turn, proclaim the good news to others once they witness, for themselves, what was told to them by the Angels. And all who heard the shepherd’s testimony were amazed!
 
Timothy continues to announce the good news to us in the epistle – through our Baptism and renewed by the Holy Spirit, Christ has saved us! Not because of anything we have earned, but, because of His generous grace to us, we have become heirs to eternal life with Him! We have become the holy people as prophesied by Isaiah. We are the people in the Psalm who are glad, who rejoice, and who give thanks!
 
And like Isaiah, the Psalmist, the angels, the shepherds, and Timothy, we are called to witness to others and proclaim the Good News of our savior’s great gift! The gift of eternal life through His mercy and grace.
 
Please remember, that as joyous as this time of year is for some, many others are suffering, alone, unwelcomed, maybe they have experienced a tragedy or some great loss. Please remember all of them in your prayers and reach out if you can – just to be present with them.
 
And to those in great pain; Ponder as Mary did, the gifts the Lord has been gracious enough to provide, and count and share your blessings rather than the struggles you bear so courageously and may be known to you alone. The crosses we bear – many of them devastating – make it difficult to be joyful and at peace, ask Mary and let her help you in your struggles, as she knows them well and will reflect Her Sons Light upon you to strengthen and protect you.
 
God Bless you all – Merry Christmas!

​-Deacon Joe