Daily Catholic Lectio. Thu, 1 January ‘26. From Journey to Purpose

Daily Catholic Lectio

Thu, 1 January ‘26

New Year’s Day

Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God

Num 6:22–27. Gal 4:4–7. Lk 2:16–21

From Journey to Purpose

As we step into a new year, let us begin with a quiet but profound truth: space belongs to us, but time belongs to God. We move within places of our choosing, but time carries us in ways we do not control. Today, we thank God who holds the new year—2026—in his hands and gently leads us into it. Time is not ours to possess; it is God’s gift to be fulfilled.

An ancient Christian text, the Hymn of the Pearl from the Acts of Thomas, offers a powerful image for this day. It tells the story of a young prince sent from his royal home to a distant land to retrieve a priceless pearl guarded by a fierce serpent. Disguised, he forgets his mission, becomes a slave, and loses his identity. Only when a letter from home awakens him does he remember who he is, why he was sent, and what he must seek. He defeats the serpent, recovers the pearl, and returns to receive the robe of glory prepared for him.

This is our story. Each new year finds us like that prince—full of hope and intention. As days pass, we are distracted, dulled by routine, enslaved by fear, habits, or endless busyness. We forget our purpose. Yet today is a letter from home. God reminds us: You are not made for slavery. You are sent for a pearl. Our life itself is that precious pearl. This year, may we not forget what we are seeking.

The first reading shows us a God who actively searches for his people. Through Aaron, God blesses Israel: The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord let his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. The Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace.

Here are three gifts for the new year:

– Blessing for the body, that life may be protected and sustained.

– Grace for the soul, that forgiveness and strength may renew us.

– Peace for the mind, that our hearts may rest in God.

Israel is reminded that life moves not by human strength alone, but by God’s faithful presence. At the beginning of the year, we place the oars of our fragile boat into God’s hands—and allow ourselves, at times, simply to rest.

The Gospel presents three simple but decisive actions.

First, the shepherds leave their sheep and go in haste to see the Messiah. To encounter what is greater, they leave what is familiar. New life always requires leaving something behind. No one finds the pearl without movement.

Second, the people who hear them are filled with wonder. Shepherds were considered unreliable, insignificant. Yet God chooses them as his first messengers. God often speaks through unexpected voices. This year, may we live without fear of human opinion, faithful to what we have seen and heard.

Third, Mary gathers everything in her heart. Luke uses a word that means “to hold together,” “to connect.” Mary does not rush to explain; she contemplates. She links events, words, joys, and wounds into a deeper meaning. In a hurried world, Mary teaches us the discipline of interior silence. Fulfilled time needs reflection.

The second reading brings everything to completion: “When the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son.” Time is not meant merely to be spent or wasted; it is meant to be fulfilled. To fulfil time is to live it with meaning, direction, and love. The child born of Mary makes us not slaves, but sons and daughters.

As we begin this year, we are invited to a journey—not aimless, but purposeful. Let our steps be toward the pearl. Let no serpent frighten us. Let no distraction rob us of our identity. We are princes and princesses, called to glory.

May Mary, Mother of God, teach us to carry time with faith, to gather life with wisdom, and to walk steadily toward what truly matters.

Happy New Year. 

May the Lord bless you, keep you, and give you peace.

Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi

Archdiocese of Madurai

Missionary of Mercy