Christmas Day

Today’s Scriptures: Lectionary selections from the Revised Common Lectionary Year C Dec 25  Nativity of the Lord II   Isaiah 62:6-12   Psalm 97   Titus 3:4-7   Luke 2:[1-7] 8-20 Dec 25  Nativity of the Lord III   Isaiah 52:7-10   Psalm 98   Hebrews 1:1-4 [5-12]   John 1:1-14

Today’s Reflection: Christmas morning, amid the various wrapping paper remnants, we like to reflect back on the birth of the Christ child. The passages this year, though take us beyond the manger. The word found across many of the passages is “heir,” a word we more likely associate with disposition of property following death. Thinking about death on a day like today kills the mood in a hurry. Fortunately for us, the inheritance we get through the coming of Christ is a living gift that continues into today.   As the only son, Jesus has all of God’s creation at his command. As co-heirs to that creation we are drawn in with a connection like none other. Throughout the entire season, we have been reminded of the connection we have to one another, to the historical Biblical figures, and most importantly to the triune God.   As heirs to the creation, we have responsibility to care for that creation and work as God would have us. Today is a time of celebration, but tomorrow comes time to start working. As we have seen through the passages, our relationship with God requires effort on both parts. He empowers us to do what needs to be done and we do it. Even though God does not need us, he desires us to be a part of his ongoing activity. Being desired means so much.   When we come down from the holiday highs and return to our daily routines, let us remember just how much God desired our participation in his creation. Let us remember just how much he counts on our actions fulfilling his desires. The birth of Christ in human form let us have that pure and perfect connection with God in order to perfect our relationship with him. Each day in the coming year, let us celebrate that relationship.

Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, copyright © 2005 Consultation on Common Texts. www.commontexts.org