Word to the Wise
Thursday, December 25, 2014 - Christmas: Mass at Dawn - ABC
[Isa 62:11-12; Titus 3:4-7; Luke 2:15-20]The shepherds said to one another, "Let us go, then, to Bethlehem to see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us." So they went in haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known the message that had been told them about this child. All who heard it were amazed by what had been told them by the shepherds. And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. [Luke]
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2014 THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD [Mass at Dawn]
[Isaiah 62: 11-12; Titus 3:4-7; Luke 2:15-20]
The shepherds said to one another, "Let us go, then, to Bethlehem to see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us." So they went in haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known the message that had been told them about this child. All who heard it were amazed by what had been told them by the shepherds. And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. [Luke]
On Christmas Day in the morning, what is your custom? Did you do the unwrapping of gifts on the evening before or did you wait till this morning? (Some families do both for reasons of different schedules of children and grandchildren!) No doubt the whole process has a ritual quality to it. I want to add a ritual if I may? Before running toward the tree and presents, may I suggest first stopping at the manger scene to consider the greatest gift of all? Like the shepherds, we have been told of this event. In our case, however, it can lose its freshness and glory because of familiarity! Once we have done that, can we say to one another, "Christ is born!" and once more be amazed? Can we then, like Mary, keep all these things and reflect on them in our hearts?
I realize this additional ritual may be difficult with excited children (and adults?) but I believe it will bring a dimension to your Christmas celebration that will make it all the richer for realizing what an incredible gift lies there in that manger. The light of the Christmas star can then shine on all good gifts.
To all my Beloved Congregation, whether here in the U.S.A. or around the world, I wish a blessed and holy Christmas/Epiphany season and a happy and healthy New Year. I will remember you all at the celebration of the Eucharist and thank God for the gift of your acceptance of this daily preaching. AMEN
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