Introduction
This Christmas Rosary Reflection is the first of three parts of the Infancy narrative of Jesus found in the second chapter of the Gospel of Luke.
The Gospel Account
In this part, Mary and Joseph travel to Bethlehem to comply with a Roman decree for enrollment. While there, Mary gives birth to Jesus in a humble place, far away from the comfort of home in Nazareth.
The Birth of Jesus Reflection contains the verses of this passage from the second chapter of the Gospel of Luke, Luke 2:1-7.
The Five Decades
When you pray the five decades of this Rosary Reflection, use these five moments from Mary’s prayer in the Gospel. Read the Gospel verses for each decade and let the words sink in as you pray that decade.
First Decade: Caesar Decrees an Enrollment (Luke 2:1-2)
In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that the whole world should be enrolled. This was the first enrollment, when Quirinius was governor of Syria.
Second Decade: All People Comply With Caesar (Luke 2:3)
So all went to be enrolled, each to his own town.
Third Decade: Joseph and Mary Travel to Bethlehem (Luke 2:4-5)
And Joseph too went up from Galilee from the town of Nazareth to the city of David that is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed who was with child.
Fourth Decade: Mary Gives Birth (Luke 2:6-7a)
While they were there, the time came for her to have her child, and she gave birth to her first-born son.
Fifth Decade: Mary’s Infant is Laid in a Manger (Luke 2:7b)
She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
What to Remember
These Gospel verses reflect the power and wisdom of God to work through the unfolding events of human history to bring salvation to His people. Even though the mighty rulers of earth use force and intimidation to reign, God uses the humble and the lowly to fulfill His promises and prove His faithfulness.
As a follower of Jesus, and child of God, you can relive the birth of Jesus in your prayer time and reflect on God’s faithfulness to you and your loved ones. Mary’s prayers are with you so that her story becomes your story too.
What to Pray For
- For a joyful remembrance and celebration of the birth of Jesus in your heart today.
- For all families and single women giving birth, whether in safe or difficult surroundings.
- For all refugees, who have been forced to relocate or are displaced by government laws or decrees.
- For a deeper respect and service to the poor.
When This Gospel Appears
Luke’s Gospel account in the Gospel reading on Christmas Day, in the Lectionary. The latest appearance is December 25, 2022.
* Scripture passages are from the United Conference of Catholic Bishops website, https://usccb.org/bible
Click here to pray Christmas Rosary Reflection-Part 2, The Annunciation to the Shepherds.
