Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: September 8, 2025

Date: Feast of the Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary

Scripture Text:  Matthew 1:18-23

This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."

All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means "God is with us."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel reading for today from Matthew recounts Joseph’s response to learning that his betrothed, Mary, was with child. We also learn of the LORD’s intervention, sending an angel to inform Joseph of Mary’s purity and of her son’s identity.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

How do I look at Mary, mother of my Savior?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, You chose Mary to be the earthly mother of your beloved and only begotten Son, Jesus. From before she was born, You knew that she would be the Mother of Christ, the Mother of God. Today as we honor our Blessed Mother Mary, we give You thanks for her faith, for her hope and belief in your promise, and for her love. Send your Spirit to help us in our lives to be as open as the Blessed Mother to your will and to your love and to your Son. Amen.