Readings: The Sixth Day of Christmas |USCCB 

The Gospel today, is a continuation of yesterday’s passage on the presentation to the temple. Today, it is Anna, who like Simeon, feels full of gratitude to have seen salvation in the infant child presented by Mary and Joseph. The promise of salvation longed for centuries was being fulfilled before Anna and Simeon’s eyes and for all those who like them have been “awaiting the redemption.”  

The Incarnation is our reason for rejoicing. In Jesus, God has revealed his love and mercy to the world as a light that shines amid darkness.  This young babe, who emptied Himself by taking the form of a slave (Phil 2,7) both at the manger and at the cross, has offered us by doing so, God’s redemption. 

We are invited to rejoice, like Simeon and Anna, because it is through Jesus that our sins have been forgiven. Through Jesus, Evil has been conquered. Through Jesus, we have known the Father’s love.   

As we continue to celebrate Christmas, may we rejoice in the gift of the Incarnation, the gift of our redemption, and God’s unconditional love. 

Marta Pereira, Associate Director of Campus Ministry

The Campus Ministry Seasonal Reflections are offered during the liturgical seasons of Advent/Christmas and Lent/Easter. We bring a variety of voices from Students, Faculty and Staff. The perspectives expressed in these reflections are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of Campus Ministry.