Gospel: December 25, 2025
December 25, 2025 (Thursday)
Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord (Christmas)
Psalter: Proper / (White)
Ps 98:1, 2-3, 3-4, 5-6
All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.
1st Reading: Isaiah 52:7-10
2nd Reading: Hebrews 1:1-6
Gospel: John 1:1-18
In the beginning was the Word. And the Word was with God and the Word was God; he was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him nothing came to be. Whatever has come to be, found life in him; life, which for human beings, was also light, light that shines in darkness, light that darkness could not overcome. A man came, sent by God; his name was John. He came to bear witness, as a witness to introduce the Light, so that all might believe through him. He was not the Light, but a witness to introduce the Light; for the Light was coming into the world, the true Light that enlightens everyone. He was in the world, and through him the world was made, the very world that did not know him. He came to his own, yet his own people did not receive him; but to all who received him, he empowers to become children of God, for they believe in his name. These are born, but not by seed, or carnal desire, nor by the will of man: they are born of God. And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us; and we have seen his glory, the glory of the only Son of the Father: fullness of truth and loving-kindness. John bore witness to him openly, saying, “This is the one who comes after me, but he is already ahead of me, for he as before me.” From his fullness we have all received, favor upon favor. For God had given us the law through Moses, but Truth and Loving-kindness came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God, but God—the only Son made him known: the one, who is in and with the Father.
Reflection:
“The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.”
Christmas is a feast full of wonder and hope. What we celebrate is no less than God’s entry into the world to share fully in our human nature: “The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.” At the heart of our faith is our belief in the love of God. Christ’s birth is proof of that. So, it’s that love that should be at the heart of our Christmas celebrations. God’s love for us prompts our love for him and our love for others. It’s God’s love that should fuel our family gatherings and our celebrations. It’s God’s love that urges us to spare a thought for those less fortunate than ourselves, and to care for and to pray for those who are struggling at this time. Christ, the Son of God was born in a messy stable. This tells us that God is near at every moment of life, including the toughest of times. Christ enters our lives to offer hope, love and salvation—and that is the Good News we celebrate. Jesus has come to make his home in our hearts. So, let’s thank him; let’s praise him. Come let us adore him!
