These reflections are a result of more than 40 years of ministry as a Roman Catholic priest. Most of these years I spent in the Diocese of Charlotte which covers Western North Carolina. Now I am retired, and live in Medellín, Colombia where I continue to serve as a priest in the Archdiocese of Medellín.
And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. (Mt 2:1-12)
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/010525.cfm
What will be the gift we offer? In addition to gold, frankincense and myrrh, maybe we should consider offering reconciliation, justice and peace. Then, perhaps, we could all follow the Star together as sisters and brothers, members of just one family. Today’s Colombian carol Los Reyes Magos (The Three Kings).
John was standing with two of his disciples, and as he watched Jesus walk by, he said, “Behold, the Lamb of God.” The two disciples heard what he said and followed Jesus. (Jn 1:35-42)
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/010425.cfm
Much like John the Baptist, the church’s job is to point out the “Lamb of God” and invite others to follow him. Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton (1774-1821) is considered the founder of Catholic religious education programs and schools in the United States. Today’s Afro-Colombian carol is Sagrada Santa María (Holy Saint Mary) and praises God for Mary and Joseph.
See what love the Father has bestowed on us that we may be called the children of God. Yet so we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God’s children now. (1 Jn 2:29-3:6)
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/010325.cfm
The ancient Fathers and Mothers of the church tell us: The Son of God became the Son of Man so that men and women could become the dear children of God. May our dignity as children of God continue to fill our hearts with joy. Today we have an Afro-Colombian carol.
Alleluia (Heb 1:1-2)
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
In times, past, God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets: in these last days, he has spoken to us through his Son.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/010225.cfm
As we continue to reflect on the Word Made Flesh, we celebrate Basil the Great (330-379) and his close friend, Gregory Nazianzen (329-390). They were important teachers who helped the church to embrace faith in the Trinity as defined by the Council of Nicaea (325). Today's Colombian carol is Oh Niño Jesús (O Baby Jesus).
And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. (Lk 2:16-21)
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/010125.cfm
As we enter a new civil year, we continue to reflect on the Mystery of the Word Made Flesh. Like Mary, we treasure all these things in our heart. Like Mary, we proclaim the greatness of the Lord not only with our lips, but in our lives by living and loving as He taught. And may the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord’s face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May the Lord look upon you with kindness and give you peace. Happy New Year! Today's Colombian carol is Salve Reina y Madre (Hail Queen & Mother).
