Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: January 1 ,2026

Date: Solemnity of Mary

Scripture Text:  Luke 2:16-21

The shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known the message that had been told them about this child. All who heard it were amazed by what had been told to them by the shepherds. And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told to them.  

When eight days were completed for his circumcision, he was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel reading for today recounts the visit of the shepherds to the Holy Family on Christmas. We get a glimpse into Mary from this reading and her reflection on the event. 

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

 How reflective am I of the events of my life? Do I seek the LORD’s help in interpreting them?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, You sent your only-begotten Son to us as our brother, to share in our humanity in all ways except sin, and to reveal You to us through His teachings and His example. Nowhere was this divine revelation clearer than in His self-sacrifice on the cross of Calvary for love of You and love of us. Send your Spirit to stir within us as You did with the Blessed Mother, Mary, so that we might better understand your will, your power and your presence, manifestations of your great love, in our lives. Grant that we may daily seek time with your Son intentionally as we trust in His promise to us, “I am with you always.” Truly, He is Emmanuel – “God is with us.” We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.