THE MYSTERY OF THE VIRGIN BIRTH
First Reading: Isaiah 7: 10-14
Second Reading: Romans 1: 1-7
Gospel Reading: Matthew 1: 18-24
*First reading is from the book of Prophet Isaiah. Isaiah foretells the birth of a very special child. He would be called Emmanuel. Ahaz the King of Judah is in great distress. The Prophet encourages him to have faith in the Lord God. Isaiah's constant message to the King is to trust in the Lord God. Further, the Prophet invites Ahaz to ask for a sign from the Lord God. The King refuses to ask for a sign. However, the Prophet tells Ahaz that he would be given a sign by the Lord God: A son will be born whose name will be Emmanuel- GOD WITH US.
*Second reading is from St. Paul's letter to Romans. The opening lines from Paul to the Christian community in Rome is mentioned. Paul refers to the human and divine 'roots' of Jesus. He describes Jesus as a descendant of David and Son of God who is the fulfillment of all the prophecies of the past.
Emmanuel: God with us Today's Gospel reading is from St. Matthew. The fulfillment of the prophecy of Isaiah is mentioned. Jesus is seen as the royal child of the house of David; born of a virgin. In Jesus, the dynasty of David continues. He is not only the son of David but also Son of God. Jesus is born of a virgin mother Mary. Mary's virginity points to the truth that Jesus is conceived without the intervention of a human father. A virgin mother has no precedent in any religious traditions. As we approach Christmas the prophecy of Isaiah and its fulfillment in Matthew's Gospel is brought for a specific purpose. It is to remind all of us that even in our most distressing situations of life, difficulties, disappointments and pains, God is with us. It is in those painful times that we realize the immense power and the greatness of the Almighty.
"Christmas is not a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas." - C. Coolidge
"Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone." - C.M. Schulz
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
May the Emmanuel born in Bethlehem Bless everyone.
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