The secret to receiving Christ this Christmas


22 December

Luke 1:46-56

Continuing from yesterday's Gospel, Mary sang her "Magnificat", a song-prayer filled with love and joy for God, our Savior.

In the First Reading, Hannah presented her new-born son Samuel humbly to Eli in the temple.  From the very start, she acknowledged that her son was already made, destined to serve in the temple.

In these two personages, Hannah and Mary, is reflected utmost humility as condition experiencing the true meaning of Christmas.

As we await the immediate coming of the Lord this Christmas, today's readings inspire us to respond through the words of Magnificat or even Hannah's generosity of offering her son, Samuel.  How should we respond to the Lord's gift of himself this Christmas?

First, adore the Lord.  Mary adored the Lord, even though she was regarded as "blessed among all women", she said, "My spirit finds joy in God, my Savior, for he has looked kindly on his lowly servant; all generations will call me blessed."  Adoration is attributed to God alone.  A person who adores God will prioritize him above any of his or her personal activities.

Second, always be humble.   Humility becomes an integral component for adoration.  A person who is filled with pride for owning everything and not attributing even a small things to God becomes dead in sin.

Third, "reversal of fortune".  "He has pulled down princes from their thrones and exalted the lowly.
The hungry he has filled with good things, the rich sent empty away."  This is particularly true of an overly proud person who doesn't have the capacity to listen and learn; he or she will go home empty-handed, always hungry for true life.

The very secret of Christ is placing all hopes in Jesus alone!

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