A reading from the gospel according to Luke 2:16-21

16 The shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger.
17 When they saw this, they made known the message that had been told them about this child.
18 All who heard it were amazed by what had been told them by the shepherds.
19 And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart.
20 Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told to them.
21 When eight days were completed for his circumcision, he was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

Reflection:

The good news about the birth of the savior was first announced to shepherds, not to educated people or those with authorities. They were considered humble and marginalized in Jewish society yet they were privileged to hear the voice of angels proclaiming the coming of the Messiah. This highlights God’s inclusivity and preference for the overlooked. King David, the ancestor of Jesus, was of course a shepherd but God made him the greatest king of Israel. Moreover, Jesus Himself will become the Good Shepherd who takes care for all of us.

The shepherds found the King of kings lying in a manger because there were no vacant rooms available. The scene is not meant to romanticize poverty or hardship. It is a stark reminder of the world Jesus entered – a world stained by sin, shrouded in darkness, and often indifferent to the divine presence within its midst. Yet, even in this tarnished reality, hope flickers. The manger, though crude, becomes a cradle of light, radiating the promise of redemption and love.

And so, we are called to prepare a manger within our own hearts. Not a physical space, but a sanctuary of devotion, where we clear away the clutter of worldly concerns and make room for the indwelling of Christ. Like Mary, who pondered His words in her heart, we are invited to embrace the Word of God, allowing it to cleanse and purify our souls. Like the awestruck shepherds, we are called to sing His praises, not just with our lips, but with the entirety of our beings. Like them, let us go out and tell others the good news of our salvation.

The good news that the humble shepherds received is meant to echo through the valleys and resonate across the mountains. We are called, like the angels themselves, to become heralds of hope, sharing the message of salvation with all who yearn for light. Let our lives be testaments to the transformative power of Christ, radiating His love through acts of compassion, forgiveness, and service.

Happy New year to everyone.

*****

As we gather on this New Year’s Day to reflect, plan, and hope for the days ahead, we turn to the Gospel reading above. This passage recounts the humble yet profound moment when the shepherds, having been visited by angels, hasten to Bethlehem and find Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus lying in a manger. Their encounter leads them to glorify and praise God, while Mary treasures these moments in her heart. The passage concludes with Jesus’ circumcision and naming, fulfilling the instructions given by the angel before His conception.

The start of a new year is often filled with resolutions, dreams, and aspirations. It’s a time when we long for a fresh start and a renewed sense of purpose. Luke 2:16-21 offers us profound lessons to carry into this season of renewal and beyond.

1. A Call to Seek Jesus
The shepherds, ordinary people going about their daily lives, received the extraordinary message of Christ’s birth. Their response was immediate: they set out in haste to find Him. This reminds us that seeking Jesus should be our first priority, not only at the beginning of the year but every day. No matter our background or circumstances, the invitation to encounter Christ is extended to all. Like the shepherds, let us be eager to draw near to Him, seeking His presence in prayer, scripture, and worship.

2. Rejoice in God’s Faithfulness
When the shepherds found Jesus, they couldn’t contain their joy. They glorified and praised God for everything they had seen and heard. Their actions challenge us to adopt an attitude of gratitude as we enter the new year. Reflect on the past year: how has God shown His faithfulness? Even in trials, His grace sustains us. Let us carry a spirit of thanksgiving into 2024, rejoicing in God’s goodness and sharing it with others.

3. Treasure the Moments
Mary’s response to the events unfolding around her was to treasure and ponder them in her heart. In a world that moves at a relentless pace, it’s easy to overlook the sacredness of daily moments. This year, make it a goal to pause and reflect on God’s presence in your life. Treasure the milestones, big or small, and recognize His hand in every season. Journaling, meditating, or simply taking time to be still can help you cultivate this practice.

4. Embrace New Beginnings with Obedience
The passage ends with the naming of Jesus, a significant act of obedience to God’s command. This moment marks the beginning of His earthly mission to save humanity. For us, New Year’s Day symbolizes a fresh chapter. As we set goals and make plans, let’s commit to walking in obedience to God’s will. Seek His guidance in your decisions, trusting that His plans are for your good and His glory.

5. Share the Good News
The shepherds didn’t keep the news of Christ’s birth to themselves; they spread it to others. As believers, we are called to do the same. This year, let us be intentional about sharing the hope and love of Jesus with those around us. Whether through acts of kindness, words of encouragement, or a testimony of faith, our lives can point others to Him.

As we step into 2025, The Gospel passage above inspires us to seek Jesus, rejoice in His faithfulness, treasure the moments, embrace new beginnings with obedience, and share the good news. Just as the shepherds were transformed by their encounter with Christ, so can we be renewed by His presence in our lives. Let this New Year be a time of drawing closer to the Savior, growing in faith, and living out His purpose with joy and gratitude.

May we, like Mary, ponder the depth of God’s love and, like the shepherds, proclaim His glory to all. Happy New Year, and may God’s blessings guide and sustain you throughout the year ahead.