Sister Bridget Kiniry shared the following reflection at Dominican Convent.
We are here to celebrate the Mass on Christmas Day. The readings chosen for this Mass leave us with a full message of all the Nativity readings, as they are called by the Church. Each of the previous Masses gave us a piece of this marvelous story: The Vigil Mass brought us out of darkness and Midnight Mass gave us the Proclamation and the song of the angels. The Mass at dawn told of shepherds proclaiming the good news. And here we are, Christmas Day. The readings sum up all we have heard about the birth and mission of this Holy Child.
A Child—we are celebrating a Holy Child, and Christmas morning belongs to children. There is that very special moment in time when we can witness the wonder in children on Christmas morning—a real sense of holy wonder. It is something one can’t explain or hold on to. Parents do everything they can to catch this moment. Once experienced, it is never forgotten.
Now look at the Prologue of the Gospel of John for this Mass which says:
“The true light, which enlightens everyone was coming into the world. . . [and] to those who did accept him, he gave the power to become children of God, to those who believe in his name.”
And there is that moment of holy wonder! If we can accept and rejoice in the Word as the Incarnation of the Son of God, then we become children of God! No words can adequately describe this awe. It is all mystery. . .holy mystery and holy wonder!
The readings of the Nativity celebration guide us like the ancient star in St. Matthew’s narrative and have a way of leading us to the Eucharist. This special Gift of God, which is the center of all celebrations, is both our feast and focus. Christmas Day is the Incarnation when “the Word became flesh and lives among us.” We are invited to approach the reception of Holy Communion today in holy wonder as if we would approach the manger.
As we receive Holy Communion, we are receiving all the blessings and grace of Christmas. All is given. All is received. What a wonderful gift!
“Oh, come let us adore him…. Christ, Christ, The Lord.”