First Reading (Micah 5:1–4a)
“You, Bethlehem-Ephrathah, too small to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel".
Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 13:6)
“With delight I rejoice in the Lord… Let me sing of the Lord, ‘He has been good to me.’'
Alleluia Verse
“Blessed are you, holy Virgin Mary, deserving of all praise; from you rose the sun of justice, Christ our God.”
Gospel (Matthew 1:1–16, 18–23)
“Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son… which means ‘God is with us.”
Reflection
A prophecy of humble origins, Bethlehem, small and seemingly insignificant, yet it is from there that a ruler is born, shepherding with strength rooted in God alone. The psalmist’s delight in the Lord and trust in His goodness remind us to rejoice in salvation, celebrating the gift of divine mercy. We honor Mary, through whom the “sun of justice”, Christ, has risen, bringing illumination and redemption to the world The fulfillment of prophecy unfolds as Mary bears Jesus, and Joseph receives the angel’s message: God is with us.
Reflect on the mystery of God choosing what is small, quiet, even hidden, Bethlehem, a young woman, a humble carpenter, to enact the great plan of salvation. Mary’s “yes” opens the door to Emmanuel. In your life today, consider where God might be asking for your humble “yes”, in the small, ordinary gestures that become channels of divine love.
For the Church, that we may follow Mary’s humble example and welcome Christ with readiness and faith. For women and men called to respond in unexpected ways, that they may find grace and strength like Mary. For peace in our hearts and in our world, made possible by the presence of Emmanuel. Micah reminds us that greatness often comes in unexpected packages, and that God’s strength sustains and brings peace.
May your day be marked by recognition of God’s hidden movements in your life and the beauty of embracing your part in His unfolding story. Amen
God bless you and have a wonderful week
-Pal Ronnie-
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