Daily Gospel Reflection for December 30, 2024

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

Today's Gospel: Luke 2:36-40

Most people in our society think of prophets as fortune tellers. However, prophets don’t simply tell the future. Rather, the prophets of the Bible call upon their peers to turn their hearts, and sometimes their ways, back to God.

The prophetess Anna, and all of today’s Gospel, gives us guidance on how to live as a prophet in today’s world. While most of us can’t camp out at our local church every day and night, we can make God our priority. Invite Him into our daily living. Visit Him in the Blessed Sacrament when the opportunity arises. Keep close to Him through the sacraments, especially when life throws you curveballs.

Anna’s in-person encounter with the Christ-child was brief, but the treasure placed on her soul gave her the courage to boldly share her experience. Go out and connect with others, inviting them into the wonder of your relationship with Jesus. Unlike Anna's single encounter, we receive His True Presence every time we attend Mass. With more opportunity than she had, we are strengthened and fortified by Christ on a regular basis.

Finally, we see an example of being a prophet in the closing sentence of today’s Gospel. Christ Himself grew and became wise. He became learned. To be a prophet, we have to know God and know how to hear His words. Sometimes, the words are loud, but most times, God speaks to us gently, in the soft, quiet whispers on the heart. Hearing and recognizing His voice requires us to become learned.

As we look toward a new year, let us commit to learning to live as today’s Gospel teaches.

Ponder:

What are the ways you can share Christ's light with those you encounter in your life?

Pray:

Loving Father, we thank You for sending us Your divine Son. We ask that You grant us the courage and wisdom to share His love, and Your love, with the zeal of a prophet.

Daily Gospel 2