Daily Gospel Reflection for December 29, 2025

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Reflection by Emily Davis

Today's Gospel: Luke 2:22-35

From the time the angels appeared to Mary and Joseph, and Jesus was knit in His mother's womb, the Holy Family said yes to what God asked of them. Even without knowing everything that was to come, they said yes because they trusted and obeyed God’s divine plan.

When Jesus was forty-days old, He was brought to the temple for presentation:

“Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, 'Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

As a mother, I ache when my children ache. I am reminded that when I converted to Catholicism and first participated in the Stations of the Cross, I nearly fell to the ground sobbing because I couldn’t stop thinking about Mary witnessing Jesus’ trial and all the events of that day, ending in Our Lord, her holy Son’s, crucifixion. My eyes are welling as I type this because it’s unbearable. 

Yet, God wants all mothers to learn from Mary, to never stop loving, comforting, and caring for mankind. We are called to do this for all babies. We are called to follow her holy example and lead others to Him. This passage shows people who live their lives in absolute faith, and I want to be like them. God wants people to see us and see Him in us. He wants us to unwrap His love and comfort the world so all can be saved. 

Ponder:

I want to be a good disciple and lead others to Him. In times when my brain is chaotic and I can’t concentrate, how can I be more attune to God's will?

Pray:

Lord, keep us hungry for You so we might find You waiting for us in new and unexpected places. Inspire in us a desire to spend time alone with You in silence so that we may hear Your still, quiet voice.

Copyright 2025 Emily Davis

Emily “LadyEm” Davis is -- Catholic. Texan. Wife. Mama. Grandma. Crafter. USO Volunteer. CCD Teacher. Writer. Faith Influencer. Emily and her husband, Marque, moved to the Naples, Italy, area in August 2018, where he works in support of the Navy/DoD. Having recently entered her 60s whilst navigating being an empty nester, Emily is working to re-enter the workforce. The Davises adopted two puppies to fill the empty nest and miss their children and grandchildren dearly.  Please stop by Her blog, Our Home, Mary's Mantle.