📖 Mass Readings for 24 December 2025
Opening Prayer
O God, who were pleased that Your Word should take flesh in the poverty of the Virgin’s womb, grant, we pray, that through her intercession we may be ready for the coming in glory of Christ, Your Son, who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
First Reading
2 Samuel 7:1–5, 8b–12, 14a, 16
God promises King David that his house and kingdom will endure forever, a promise fulfilled in Christ. Catholic Gallery
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 89:2–3, 4–5, 27, 29
A hymn celebrating God’s covenant, faithfulness, and enduring promise to David and his descendants. Catholic Online
Gospel Reading
Luke 1:67–79
Zechariah, filled with the Holy Spirit, prophesies about the coming of the Messiah and the role of his son, John the Baptist, as the forerunner of Christ. Catholic Online
✨ Short Explanation of the Readings
First Reading – 2 Samuel 7:
God speaks through the prophet Nathan to King David, revealing that David’s royal line will not only build a lasting dynasty but will lead to the coming of the Messiah. This covenant is foundational: Jesus, the Son of David, is the eternal King promised to God’s people. Catholic Gallery
Psalm – A Covenant of Love:
The psalm reflects on God’s unfailing devotion and faithfulness. God’s promises are not temporary; they are everlasting – a call to trust in divine mercy. Catholic Online
Gospel – Luke 1:67–79 (The Canticle of Zechariah):
Zechariah’s song (the Benedictus) anticipates the advent of Christ, praising God for salvation and preparing the way for the Lord through John, his son. This song bridges the Old and New Testaments, leading us directly to the Incarnation. Catholic Online
💡 Catechism (CCC) Themes Linked to the Readings
📌 God’s Covenant with David
The promise to David anticipates Christ’s kingship: “Your house and your kingdom shall endure forever before me; your throne shall stand firm forever” (2 Sm 7:16). This is fulfilled in Christ’s eternal kingship. See CCC 437, 444–445.
📌 Messianic Hope & Advent Expectation
Advent is a season of waiting for Christ’s first coming (Incarnation) and His second coming in glory. The readings stir our hope. See CCC 524–534.
📌 Role of John the Baptist
Zechariah’s prophecy introduces John, “the voice crying in the wilderness” preparing hearts for the Lord. See CCC 523.
(For precise cross-references to the Catechism’s paragraphs, you may consult an online or published CCC index.)
🙏 Reflection & Practical Application
For Catholics
Today’s readings invite you to prepare your heart for the coming of Christ with both joy and seriousness. Like David and Zechariah, look back on God’s fidelity in your life and allow that faith to deepen your trust.
During this last stretch of Advent, ask:
✨ Am I making room in my life for Christ’s coming — especially in relationships, intentions, and forgiveness?
For Catechumens
Approach these readings as a journey into understanding who Jesus is and why He came. The promise to David is not just ancient history — it’s a direct link to the Messiah Catholics worship in the Eucharist. Notice how the waiting and hope in Advent points directly to the reality of Christ’s birth: God enters our world and our lives.
Ask yourself:
✨ How can I prepare my heart to receive Christ more fully this Christmas?
🙌 Closing Prayer
Lord God, as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Your Son, make our hearts ready like Zechariah’s for Your will. May the joy of Your promises strengthen our faith, and may we walk ever closer to Christ through prayer, love, and worship. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
📲 Sources & Where to Find the Readings Online
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Daily Mass Readings for 24 Dec 2025 (Luke 1:67-79, 2 Samuel 7, Psalm 89) – Catholic Gallery or similar lectionary site. Catholic Gallery
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USCCB Daily Readings (official Catholic liturgical texts and options). USCCB
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For Singapore context and local resources, check Catholic.sg — Mass Readings page and parish sites (often with morning/evening prayer options). Catholic SG
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