Theme of the Day: Jesus…Son Of Mary And Son Of God
Circumcision is the covenant God made with Abraham and his seed. It sealed God’s promises and blessings in the flesh, but it also signified the burden of the Law. When the Lord Jesus came in the flesh to redeem his people, he subjected himself to the Law, in order to fulfill the Law and release all from its captivity. “He was called Jesus” (Luke 2:21) because he came to save his people from their sins. Therefore, “you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise” (Gal. 3:29), not by the circumcision of your flesh, but in the flesh and blood of Christ Jesus, the true seed of Abraham. “Baptized into Christ,” you belong to him and are clothed and covered by his righteousness (Gal. 3:27). Holy Baptism is the true circumcision made without hands, by which the Lord Jesus puts his name on you and blesses you (Num. 6:22,27).
Luke 2:21
Numbers 6:22-27
Galatians 3:23-29
Psalm 8
368 – Now Greet the Swiftly Changing Year
*** – The Ancient Law Departs
674 – The Infant Priest Was Holy Born
496 – Jesus! Name of Wondrous Love
334 – I Stand beside Your Manger Here
Prayer of the Day: Eternal Son of God, on this day you were called Jesus, a name that proclaims you to be the Savior of all people. Give us strength in the new year to live each day to the honor of your name; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Alleluia. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins. Alleluia.