When Our Lady of Guadalupe first appeared to Juan Diego, she introduced herself with a profound declaration: "Juanito, the humblest of my children, know and understand that I am the ever-virgin Mary, Mother of the true God through whom all things live." As the first apparition formally sanctioned by the Church, this encounter is historically significant. Notably, Mary chose to lead with two specific titles—Virgin and Mother of God—effectively establishing her identity for all of humanity following her glorious Assumption.

From the Church's infancy, Mary was recognized by believers as the Holy Mother of God. While a few voices opposed this title, the broader consensus was solidified in 431 during the Council of Ephesus. The Church teaches that Mary is the Mother of God because she provided the human nature for our Lord—the one who is truly God and truly man.

The reality of Mary’s motherhood remains a constant presence in our daily lives. Each time we pray the Hail Mary, we acknowledge this truth, saying: "Holy Mary, Mother of God." We often take this profound reality for granted, yet it is precisely why we turn to her in prayer, recognizing her as our most powerful intercessor in heaven. When the Lord, hanging upon the cross, entrusted His mother to the care of St. John, that beloved disciple represented all believers. As recorded in the Gospel of John: “When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved, he said to his mother, ‘Woman, behold, your son.’ Then he said to the disciple, ‘Behold, your mother.’ And from that moment, the disciple took her into his home” (John 19:26-27). Because Mary views us as her own children, she offers us her unwavering love and protection, while we, the Church, look to her as our Heavenly Mother with total confidence.

The Gospel today brings us to the manger side with the shepherds. Guided by the words of the angel, they sought out the newborn Lord, finding Him wrapped in swaddling clothes. In that humble place, they offered their adoration to the Child and stood in the holy presence of His Blessed Mother.

As St. Luke recounts, the shepherds shared the wondrous message they had received about the Child, leaving everyone in awe. Yet, amidst the excitement, Mary remained a pillar of quiet strength, "And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart" (Luke 2:17-19).

From the shepherds, we are reminded of our duty to adore the mystery of the Incarnation. They offer us a model of true worship—the same worship we offer during this solemn celebration and every Sunday when we gather as a community. From Mary, we learn the depth of true humility. Though she was graced with the incomparable dignity of being the Mother of God, she remained centered and serene. The praise and wonder of the crowds never moved her toward pride; instead, she responded with a heart of reflective listening.

As we enter this new year, let us follow her example by dedicating more time to the mystery of God through consistent meditation on His Word. Just as Mary gave birth to the Son of God both physically and through her perfect spiritual obedience, let us ask her to help us bring that same Word to life in our own hearts.