How does the Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God, and the Octave Day of Christmas, where “Mary kept all these things” in her heart, inspire me to reflect on the teachings of “On Care for Our Common Home”, particularly the reminder that “environmental protection cannot be assured solely on the basis of financial calculations of costs and benefits,” as I consider the Mass schedules announced across the Diocese of Amarillo for this sacred celebration❓
Reading I
“The LORD bless you and keep you!” These words of blessing remind me of the immense care and love God has for His creation, including me. I think about the many ways in which I have been kept safe and nurtured, not only physically but spiritually, through the sacraments, the Word, and the faith community. Yet, I wonder if I’ve truly kept this love alive in my actions, especially in how I honor God by caring for the world He has entrusted to us.
Responsorial Psalm
“May God bless us in his mercy”, a mercy that overflows even when we falter in our responsibilities. As I reflect on the ways Mary kept all that was revealed to her in her heart, I’m challenged to consider what I have kept in mine. Do I hold onto grudges or fears that weigh me down, or do I strive to keep thoughts of mercy and gratitude that inspire me to better care for creation and for those in need❓
Reading II
Christ was “born of a woman, born under the law,” entering into the fullness of humanity to redeem and sanctify it. I consider how Mary’s “yes” to God was not a one-time act but a continual offering. She kept her trust in God alive despite challenges. I ask myself if I’ve kept my own “yes” to God fresh and sincere, or if I’ve allowed the distractions of modern life to dull my response to His call.
Alleluia
Alleluia, alleluia. “In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets; in these last days, he has spoken to us through the Son.” I ponder how the voice of Christ calls me to live with greater intentionality. Mary kept her focus on Jesus, even amid uncertainty. Do I allow God’s voice to shape my actions, or do I let fleeting concerns take precedence, especially when it comes to living sustainably and caring for others as an expression of faith❓ Alleluia, alleluia.
Gospel
The shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph,
and the infant lying in the manger.
When they saw this,
they made known the message
that had been told them about this child.
All who heard it were amazed
by what had been told them by the shepherds.
The song referenced in this reflection contains explicit lyrics that may not be suitable for all audiences. I chose to include it here because its themes resonate deeply with the topic at hand and provide an opportunity for meaningful reflection. By engaging with the song thoughtfully and critically, I hope to highlight a greater truth or inspire a deeper understanding that transcends its explicit content.
And Mary kept all these things,
reflecting on them in her heart.
Then the shepherds returned,
glorifying and praising God
for all they had heard and seen,
just as it had been told to them.
Metropolitan (1990)
When eight days were completed for his circumcision, he was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel
before he was conceived in the womb.
As I consider the celebration of the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God, I wonder what lessons her example holds for me today. Am I keeping her model of faith, humility, and care for others alive in my life❓ Or have I kept too much focus on convenience, profit, or comfort❓ As I strive to follow her example, I ask myself:
Here too, it should always be kept in mind that “environmental protection cannot be assured solely on the basis of financial calculations of costs and benefits.
From paragraph 190 of ENCYCLICAL LETTER LAUDATO SI’ OF THE HOLY FATHER FRANCIS ON CARE FOR OUR COMMON HOME