Mass during the Day: A reading from the holy Gospel according to John
And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father’s only Son, full of grace and truth.
Today a light shines in the darkness that had never existed before. The true light, Jesus Christ, who enlightens everyone, has come into the world as the Christ child. Today, on the birth of Jesus, we proclaim that this day God took on flesh to come among the people he created to save us from sin and death. Along with the Responsorial Psalm, we sing: “Announce his salvation, day after day. Tell his glory among the nations; among all peoples, his wondrous deeds. Today is born our Savior, Christ the Lord.”
God, help me understand the profound joy of this moment in human history. Help me realize that although Jesus came once into the world, he continues to be born every time your beloved children return to you with a whole heart and seek you, Love Itself, for the salvation of humanity. God, help me be attentive today where I place my sense of wonder—astonishment!—at the birth of your Son, Emmanuel.
Through your grace, Lord, stay with me today as I dwell on the Nativity. Let me remember to take the Christ child in my arms and adore him, the Savior of the World. Pour forth your grace, Lord, to draw me ever closer to you as I ponder your majesty and mystery; hold me in your mercy.
From the Gospel acclamation: A holy day has dawned upon us. Come, you nations, and adore the Lord. For today a great light has come upon the earth.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.