REFLECTIONS ON THE WORD – 01/03/22 (Most Holy Name of Jesus)

Matthew 1:21,23

21 she will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins."

23 "Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and His name shall be called Emmanuel" (which means, God with us).

For the full readings, click here: 

https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings

Blessed Memorial of the Most Holy Name of Jesus! The name "Jesus" means "God saves." This is truly a Precious Name because it signifies that Jesus is our Savior, and this is seen in today's gospel reading. The angel revealed to Mary that the mission of Jesus is the salvation of souls from sins, and He is the Emmanuel, God with us. Jesus is truly God who is always present with us, most specially when we accept His gift of salvation by remaining in the state of grace. 

Unfortunately, there are many times when we feel difficult to see the presence of God in our own lives and in the lives of other people. Some people will easily be angry and frustrated when they see the people whom they hate. For others, they think that God loves them while they belittle other people. However, even in us, we easily feel as if God abandoned us when we experience difficulties. Is it true that Jesus is not present with other people? On the contrary, He is always with us. We may feel that we are far from God when we do not spend time reflecting upon His love for us. We cannot experience genuine and authentic peace when we distance ourselves from the peace of Christ by committing sins and by losing hope in Him. 

Jesus is inviting us to look at the little virtues that our neighbors have and be joyful in it rather than dwell on their imperfections. We also have weaknesses like them. Just as how Mary and St. Joseph saw the presence of God and His salvation in the little infant Jesus, we should also look at the little good works of people around us as manifestation of God's grace in their lives. Also, it is truly hard to persevere in life during the moments of trials and hardships. But, we should always remember to not dwell on our sufferings. Rather, we should always remember God's gift of salvation. We will experience peace amidst sufferings when we humble ourselves and trust in the power of His Holy Name. Let us always invoke the powerful name of Jesus in our prayers, and He will guide us through the darkness in this world to His eternal home where we can see His light. 

Amen +

 

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, be with us always until the hour of our death. Amen. +

 

May the Lord + bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. +  

Reflection by: Dominic