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The Miracle of Christmas
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Joseph went up from Galilee fromt he town of Nazareth to Judea, to the city of David that is called Bethlehem, because he was of thehosue and family of David, to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. While they were there, the time came for her to have her child, and she gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in swaddling chlotes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Now there were shepherds in that region living in the fields and keepiong the night watch over their flock. The angel of the Lord appeared to them and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were struck with great fear. 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 Messiah and Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger." And suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying:
"Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests."
Christmas Reflection:
Read through the story of the birth of Jesus from the perspective of the shepherds. Following the encounter with the angel, you feel compelled to seek out this child. Imagine that you find the baby Jesus, along with Mary and Joseph in the stable. Imagine yourself gazing into the face of this child. As a shepherd of humble means, reflect on what gift you might feel called to give the Christ Child. What gift or message does Jesus have for you this Christmas season? |
