Readings for September 8, 2025
First Reading
Micah 5:1–4a
“But you, Bethlehem-Ephrathah… from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel… He shall stand and feed his flock in the strength of the LORD… he shall be peace.” USCCB
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 13:6ab, 6c
Response: With delight I rejoice in the Lord.
Though I trusted in your mercy, let my heart rejoice in your salvation. Let me sing of the LORD, “He has been good to me.” USCCB
Alleluia
Alleluia, alleluia. Blessed are you, holy Virgin Mary, deserving of all praise; from you rose the sun of justice, Christ our God. Alleluia, alleluia. USCCB
Gospel
Matthew 1:18–23
Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about… Joseph, her husband… was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit… “She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus… he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken through the prophet. USCCB
Reflection: Mary, Model of Humble Yes
I. Introduction
On this beautiful Feast of Mary’s Nativity, we celebrate not just a birth, but a life that points us to Christ. Mary’s “yes” and her humble presence in salvation history serve as the foundation of Christian faith and discipleship.
II. The Gospel Passage and Its Context
Matthew’s account highlights Mary’s unique role: though already betrothed, her pregnancy by the Holy Spirit causes tension and confusion. Joseph, in justice, considers ending the betrothal quietly—but an angel reassures him. Mary’s silent “yes” echoes through the ages as the faithful response of obedience to God’s will.
III. Broader Scriptural Resonance on Humility
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Micah 5:1–4 places Bethlehem as the humble origin of the Shepherd-King, emphasizing that greatness often comes from modest beginnings. USCCB
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Psalm 13 expresses trust in God’s mercy leading to joy and praise—not the result of human striving, but divine generosity. USCCB
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Matthew 1:18–23 shows Joseph’s humble openness to God’s message; his consent to God’s plan mirrors Mary’s humble acceptance.
IV. Reflections
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Humble openness: Both Mary and Joseph demonstrate humility—Mary in accepting God's inscrutable will, Joseph in accepting his role without fanfare.
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Hidden greatness: Like Bethlehem and the quiet home of Nazareth, humility doesn’t draw attention—but God’s chosen ones often emerge from it.
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Joy rooted in trust: Psalm 13 invites us to rejoice not because troubles disappear, but because God's mercy persists.
Quote for Emphasis:
“True humility is not thinking less of yourself—it is thinking of yourself less.” — C.S. Lewis
V. Practical Applications
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Embrace smallness: Recognize value in humble places—your daily work, unnoticed acts of kindness, hidden moments of prayer.
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Listen attentively: Like Joseph, let your heart be open to God’s quiet voice guiding you in unexpected ways.
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Respond with trust: When life interrupts your plans, seek to say “yes” to God with trust like Mary.
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Sing in joy: Whether in peace or hardship, let God’s mercy ignite praise in your life like the Psalmist.
VI. Conclusion
On this Feast of Mary’s Nativity, we are reminded that God’s greatest plans often unfold in quiet humility. Mary and Joseph model trust, obedience, and humble greatness. May we, like them, find joy in God’s mercy and live with humble hearts open to His call.
Verse of the Day
“Though I trusted in your mercy, let my heart rejoice in your salvation.” — Psalm 13:6
Prayer for the Reader
Heavenly Father,
On this Feast of the Nativity of Mary, we give You thanks for her humble “yes” that welcomed the Savior. Teach us to be like her—listening in stillness, responding in faith, and serving with joy. May Your mercy fill our hearts, that we might sing of Your goodness even amid life’s uncertainties. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayer of Intercession for Mary’s Birthday
O Blessed Mother, Mary,
on the day of your birth, we honor your tender presence in God’s plan. May your maternal heart intercede for us—guide our yes, inspire our trust, and lead us closer to your Son. Teach us humility, patience, and joy. Pray for our families, our community, and our world, that we, like you, may bear Christ into our world. Amen.
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