Jesus actually "leapt down from heaven. . .with beauty...with strength" (Introit) to "direct our actions" in His Name (Prayer). Hence, the Gradual offers our "good word" of gratitude. The Gospel prophecy that Jesus is "a sign which will be contradicted" indicates what we also may expect as "Sons of God" yet it strengthens our hope, that if we but live with Mary at "Nazareth,"
Then the last words of the Gospel concerning Jesus may also be applied to us, "the Child grew and waxed strong, full of wisdom." The Offertory, Secret, and Post-communion speak of final victory because "they are dead who sought the life of the Child" (Communion).
Looking to next month, January is devoted to the Holy Infancy of Our Lord. Thus, we ought to think of ways to please the beautiful Infant Who, even as a Child, wished to suffer and give an example of humility for our edification