Second Reading (Christmas Dawn):  Titus 3:4-7

The Tidal Wave of the Spirit

Popular Translation

4 When God the Savior showed everyone his love and kindness, 5 he saved us. He did so not because we did the right thing. No, he saved us because of his mercy, which he showed us when we were baptized. Then, we were reborn and made new people in God’s Spirit, 6 a Spirit he over-poured on us because of our Savior Jesus Christ. 7 So, God makes us right before him in his grace, so we might share in eternal life.

Literal Translation

4 When the kindness and love for men of our Savior God appeared, 5 he saved us, not out of works of righteousness which we did, but according to his mercy through the (baptismal) washing of rebirth and renewal in the Holy Spirit, 6 which he richly poured on us through our Savior Jesus Christ, 7 so that, having been justified in that grace, we might become heirs in the hope of eternal life.

When Jesus was born, everything changed. He showed us his love and mercy. He made us right before him so we might share his life. He gave us his very Spirit so we could turn away from immorality and become one of his children. And he gave us that Spirit like a tidal wave!

In the face of a small child, the world changed. God offers us that change, right now. Let’s celebrate Christmas with a hardy “Yes” to his offer. He will overwhelm us in response!

Reflect on God’s offer this Christmas Day. The birth of the Christ Jesus is an offer of his life. How can you revel in his life?