January 1, 2026: Mary, the Holy Mother of God

Gospel: Luke 2:16-21

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. 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. 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.

Reflection

In today’s Gospel, we are presented with contrasts. First, we have the shepherds. I envision them excitedly making their way “in haste,” shouting back and forth to each other as they go, almost stumbling in their eagerness to see for themselves what had been announced to them by the angels.

So excited, that they couldn’t keep the news to themselves, they told others, who in turn were amazed and, no doubt, told their family and their friends. Perhaps more than a few tagged along to see for themselves.

In contrast, we have Mary. I picture her gently smiling, handing her baby over to each shepherd, letting them experience him fully. It is a “God moment” for the shepherds and she does not want to interrupt. We are only told that Mary “kept all these things reflecting on them in her heart.”

Action

Today is the day for New Year’s resolutions. Perhaps two are suggested to us in this Gospel.

In what ways(s) this year can I share the “good news” of Jesus with others? What part of each day will I give to reflecting and pondering the meaning of the events of my day?