The Hebrew title “Messiah” means “anointed”. In biblical times olive oil was used to anoint people as a way of signifying their special work. Aaron was anointed in this fashion to mark his mission as high priest. Kings were anointed to mark their mission as earthly leaders of God’s People. Jesus is the Messiah because He is God’s Anointed One, the fulfillment of all the prophecies. The title “Christ” is the Greek word for “anointed.”
Micah 5:1-5
In the First Reading, the prophet Micah boldly proclaims that the time of Israel’s suffering will pass. The Shepherd of Israel will come to establish a worldwide kingdom of peace. Of course, we know that God’s Kingdom established perfectly and definitely by Jesus far exceeds Israel’s expectations.
Luke 1:39-45
As the final preparation for Christmas, the Gospel Reading relays how Mary travels to visit her relative Elizabeth who similarly is with child. Mary is not the one who announces Elizabeth’s pregnancy. Rather, the Holy Spirit causes the child in Elizabeth’s womb to “leap for joy.” According to God’s grand design, the Old is fulfilled by the New. That is, Christ Jesus is the interpretive key for the Old Covenant. The full meaning of all that precedes Jesus is seen only in His light.
