midnight mass or mask?
"The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone." —Isaiah 9:1
Only on Christmas does the Church set aside a time for Mass at midnight, because Christmas is for those at the midnight time of their lives, for those who have "walked in darkness" and "dwelt in the land of gloom" (Is 9:1). Christmas is for people who know they can't do it. They need more than help; they need a Savior. Christmas is for the "have-nots" rather than the "haves," for the rejected who are given no place in the inns of this world (Lk 2:7). It's difficult to swallow our pride and take off the mask we've worn for so long. It's hard to admit our utter dependence on the Lord, that without Him we can do nothing (Jn 15:5).
Additionally, we struggle to accept a Savior Who is also Lord. Jesus wants to not only save us from our problems but also take over every detail of our lives. Christmas is for those who admit they need Christmas, who admit their desperate need for the Savior and the Lord. "The grace of God has appeared, offering salvation to all" (Ti 2:11). Will you accept His offer?
Prayer: Jesus, I accept You as Lord and Savior. Save me "through the baptism of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit" (Ti 3:5).
Promise: "For a Child is born to us, a Son is given us; upon His shoulder dominion rests. They name Him Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, Father-Forever, Prince of Peace." —Is 9:5
Praise: Praise Jesus, the newborn King of Kings and Lord of Lords!
Rescript: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, June 13, 2006
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