Readings: Isaiah 63:7-9 and Matthew 2:13-23
Reflection Questions:
- After the joy-filled celebration of Christ’s arrival on the scene of human history, (Christmas) we are immediately thrust into the drama of the holy family’s flight from Israel to Egypt due to threat of death and destruction. The journey was riddled with uncertainty and perplexity, and yet divinely guided by the Word of God. In what areas of your own journey are you faced with uncertainty and perplexity, yet invited to trust and rely on God?
- Considering your own journey, the winding road of future unknowns and needs for adaptability and patient trust, how might Isaiah’s practice of recounting the steadfast love of the Lord over the course of your life aid you as you journey onward?
- Our Christmas story recounts and freshly imprints on our imaginations the promise of Immanuel: God with us. Now, as we face the New Year we are invited to trust the Gift given and received. How might you take courage in facing your new year as you remember that Jesus faced real human struggles of survival, displacement, and threats to his security, yet journeyed trusting the One who was with him? Take moments to pray, asking God to preserve your path, to give faith for the journey ahead, to carry you all the days of your life – and all for his love’s sake.
– Elizabeth Khorey