Daily Catholic Mass Readings for December 30, 2023
First Reading: 1 John 2.12-17
12I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake.13I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father.14I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.15Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.16For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.17And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
Psalm 96
1O sing unto the LORD a new song: sing unto the LORD, all the earth.2Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day.3Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people.4For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods.5For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD made the heavens.6Honour and majesty are before him: strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.7Give unto the LORD, O ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength.8Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come into his courts.9O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth.10Say among the heathen that the LORD reigneth: the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: he shall judge the people righteously.11Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof.12Let the field be joyful, and all that is therein: then shall all the trees of the wood rejoice13Before the LORD: for he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth.
Gospel: Luke 2.36-40
36And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;37And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.38And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.39And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.40And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two powerful messages that guide us in our spiritual journey. The first reading from 1 John addresses believers of different ages and stages, emphasizing forgiveness, knowledge of God, and overcoming evil. John urges us to avoid the allure of the world, with its fleeting desires, and instead focus on eternal life through God's will. The Gospel from Luke introduces us to Anna, a devout prophetess whose life is marked by prayer, fasting, and unwavering dedication to God. Her recognition of Jesus as the redeemer exemplifies a life lived in faith and anticipation of God's promises.
The context of 1 John suggests a community navigating challenges and potential divisions, with John encouraging steadfast faith and moral living. Luke's narrative, part of the infancy story, highlights the Holy Family's obedience and introduces Anna as a model of piety and patience. Both readings underscore the importance of a deep, personal relationship with God and the transformative power of faith.
Together, these readings remind us to cultivate spiritual strength and avoid worldly distractions. Anna's example teaches us about the value of prayer and dedication, urging us to remain attentive to God's presence in our lives. As we navigate our own journeys, may we embrace the eternal truths of our faith, trusting in God's plan and living with hearts focused on what truly endures.