Sunday Reflection (December 24, 2023)

Besides the shepherds, the Magi, and Joseph and Mary, few recognized that a special king had been born in the manger far away from the intrigue and comfort of power, wealth, and prestige. The Blessed Virgin Mary had been chosen to bear the Christ child (Luke 1:26-38). With this announcement to Mary, the line of David was no longer simply a historical accident. Rather, it is an essential factor in God’s plan of salvation for the whole world. The throne of David is conferred upon Jesus. Nathan’s prophecy of “a kingly promise” is fulfilled: Christ is the legitimate descendant of David’s throne.
 
This throne is not limited to earthly power, it is heavenly and includes the claim to universal sovereignty. This “kingly promise” went well beyond David’s imagination. We Gentiles have been incorporated into this kingdom of love, and our King is especially concerned about the poor, the oppressed, and the outcast, as this beautiful song of Mary (Magnificat) relates (Luke 1:47-55). As Christ was formed with Mary, may Christ be formed within us and among us!