On Christmas Day, we rejoice that the eternal Word became flesh and dwelt among us. In the child born of Mary, we behold the glory of God, full of grace and truth, who brings light, life, and salvation to the world. By His incarnation, He shares our humanity so that we might share His divinity. In Him, the darkness is overcome, and we are made children of God, heirs of His eternal kingdom.

Old Testament: Exodus 40:17–21, 34–38

• The tabernacle is completed and filled with the glory of the Lord.

• This points forward to Christ, who “tabernacles” among us in His incarnation. The glory once hidden in the cloud now shines in the face of the child born in Bethlehem.

Epistle: Titus 3:4–7

• Paul proclaims the kindness and love of God our Savior, who saves us not by works but through mercy.

• Christmas is the appearing of that kindness: the Word made flesh brings new birth by water and Spirit, making us heirs of eternal life.

Gospel: John 1:1–14

• John’s prologue declares the eternal Word, through whom all things were made, has now become flesh.

• The child in the manger is the Light that no darkness can overcome. In Him we see God’s glory, full of grace and truth, and are given the right to become children of God.