MEMORIAL OF STS. BASIL THE GREAT AND GREGORY NAZIANZEN, BISHOPS AND DOCTORS OF THE CHURCH
1 John 2:22–28
Reflect
In the early centuries of the Church, theologians labored intensely to formulate accurate and concise expressions of who Jesus is. St. Gregory Nazianzen is one who made an enormous contribution to the Church in this regard. He poetically writes: “Let us become like Christ, since Christ became like us. He assumed the worse that he might give us the better; he became poor that we through his poverty might be rich.” Succinctly put, he argued that Christ’s divinity was essential for salvation, as only God can save humanity from sin and death. At the same time, his humanity allowed him to serve as a mediator between God and man, and to suffer on behalf of humanity.
Pray
Heavenly Father, as we contemplate the great mystery of who Jesus is, we ask for the grace to be united to him. May we imitate his selflessness, his humility, and his love for all. Amen.
Live
Do you have a favorite Christmas carol? (Not a secular Christmas song, a proper Christian one!) Take a moment to listen to a Christmas carol today.
