The Nativity of the Lord
Gospel: Luke 2:15-20; John 1:1-18
Witness of the Shepherd and John the Baptist

Today, following tradition, the Church will celebrate two Christmas Masses for Jesus, namely the Nativity of the Lord Mass at Dawn and the Nativity of the Lord Mass during the Day. Both Gospels share a common theme: testimony.
St. Luke introduces us to the process of the shepherds who, upon hearing the angel’s announcement, went to Bethlehem and arrived at the manger where the infant Jesus was. Initially, they harboured doubts and even felt fear, but soon after, they began to attempt to go to Bethlehem to see the Messiah announced by the angel. Upon seeing the Messiah of God, they glorified and praised God continuously on their way back.
St. John reveals to us the profound mystery of the Word of God and God’s creation, as well as the new creation that He began through John the Baptist. We can see the testimony of John the Baptist in his accounts. John the Baptist, who could have replaced Jesus, humbled himself and clearly pointed out to us that Jesus is the Messiah of God. As a disciple of John the Baptist, St. John, under the influence of John, decided to follow our Lord Jesus and become His disciple.
From the accounts of these two sacred historians, we see a common theme: witness. In accordance with His providence, God chose the shepherds to proclaim to the world the incarnation of Jesus Christ. Moreover, in accordance with His holy will, He chose John the Baptist as the forerunner of Jesus Christ, preparing a suitable people for our Lord Jesus Christ.
Today, God has likewise chosen us, inviting us to proclaim to the world the mystery of the Incarnation of the Savior, Jesus Christ. Let us emulate the shepherds and John the Baptist, living out the Word of God in our lives, and with a simple and generous attitude, proclaim to the world the joyful news of the Savior’s birth.
I wish you all a joyous Christmas in the Lord Jesus!

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Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025