Mass Readings for December 27, 2025-(Feast of St. John, Apostle and Evangelist).
First Reading: (1 John 1:1-4)
Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 97:1-2, 5-6, 11-12)
R. Rejoice in the Lord, you just!
Gospel: (John 20:1a, 2-8)
Reflection
1. The Word Made Visible
St. John the Apostle, whose feast we celebrate today, is profoundly connected to the revelation of Christ as the Word of Life. In the First Reading, John emphasizes that Jesus is not a distant idea but something seen, heard, touched, and lived- the eternal life made visible to us.
This reminds us that faith is rooted in real encounter with Jesus, not abstract belief.
2. Rejoicing in God’s Reign
The Psalm calls us to rejoice and give thanks. The Lord is king over all, and His justice and glory extend over the earth. Rejoicing isn’t just an emotional response, it’s a choice of trust and praise even when life’s challenges surround us, because God’s reign brings peace and right order.
3. Believing in the Risen Christ
The Gospel recounts the very first revelation of the empty tomb. Though it is an Easter scene, it is lifted into the Christmas season on this feast because St. John’s writings tie the Incarnation and the Resurrection together: the Word who became flesh is the same Life who conquered death.
John’s unique way of presenting this highlights what Catholics profess in every Mass:
“We proclaim to you eternal life, which was with the Father and was made visible to us…”
4. Fellowship and Joy
A key theme in today’s readings is community and joy. John writes so that “our joy may be complete.” His invitation is not private but communal- we are called into fellowship with the Father, with Christ, and with one another.
Have a wonderful weekend
Pal Ronnie
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