January 4, 2023

“When the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, in order to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as children.” (Galatians 4:4-5)

Trees are most likely on the curbside now, but liturgically speaking, we are still in the season of Christmas. That text is chosen for the 2cd Sunday of Christmas because that is when and why Christmas happened. When? The fullness of time. Why? So that we who were under the law might be redeemed and become children of God.”

Of course, we love the shepherds and angels and magi, but right there is the heart of hearts of Christmas.

“Eternal Father, you gave to your incarnate Son the holy name of Jesus to be the sign of our salvation: Plant in every heart, we pray, the love of him who is the Savior of the world, our Lord Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.” (Holy Name – BCP)