Pope Benedict XVI, in his first Christmas homily since becoming the Holy Father, delivered a homily at the Christmas vigil mass in which he reflected on the readiness of the shepherds to receive God's Word:
They were people who were watchful. This was chiefly true in a superficial way: they kept watch over their flocks by night. But it was also true in a deeper way: they were ready to receive God's word. Their life was not closed in on itself; their hearts were open. In some way, deep down, they were waiting for him.
The Pope continued with his thoughts on Jesus leaving us His peace:
Christ gives himself to us and, in doing so, gives us his peace. He gives it to us so that we can carry the light of peace within and give it to others. He gives it to us so that we can become peacemakers and builders of peace in the world.
From all of us at the Pope Blog, have a very merry Christmas!
