First reading – 1 John 1:5-2:2

‘The blood of Jesus Christ purifies us all from sin’

This is what we have heard from Jesus Christ, and the message that we are announcing to you:
God is light; there is no darkness in him at all. If we say that we are in union with God while we are living in darkness, we are lying because we are not living the truth. But if we live our lives in the light, as he is in the light, we are in union with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.

If we say we have no sin in us, we are deceiving ourselves and refusing to admit the truth; but if we acknowledge our sins, then God who is faithful and just will forgive our sins and purify us from everything that is wrong. To say that we have never sinned is to call God a liar and to show that his word is not in us.

I am writing this, my children, to stop you sinning; but if anyone should sin, we have our advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ, who is just; he is the sacrifice that takes our sins away, and not only  ours, but the whole world’s.

Reflection

‘To contemplate the manger also means to contemplate this cry of pain, to open our eyes and ears to what is going on around us, and to let our hearts be attentive and open to the pain of our neighbours, especially where children are involved.’ – Pope Francis

Prayer

God-With-Us, at Christmastide I pray for all children who, like you, were born into hardship and fear. For those who are abused and hurt, for those living through war, for those who are hungry, sick or afraid. May I take the example of the shepherds; seeing beyond my own difficulties to extend a hand of friendship and protection to all your children. Amen.