Isaiah 60: 1-6
From the heart of darkness Isaiah sees the glory that will come through Israel to all peoples. 

Ephesians 3: 2-3, 5-6
Paul shares the great revelation.  God is God of all peoples. 

Matthew 2: 1-12
The Hebrew scriptures and the wise men’s scholarship come together in Bethlehem.  Jesus is Lord of all.

Ecclesiasticus 3: 2-6. 12-14
God expects children to respect their parents and be kind to them in old age. 

Colossians 3: 12-21
Love for God is reflected in a loving family life where each person respects the other. 

Matthew 2: 13-15. 19-23
After a warning from an angel about the murderous intent of King Herod, Joseph takes Mary and the infant Jesus into temporary exile in Egypt.

Isaiah 7: 10-14
Isaiah foretells the coming of Emmanuel, ‘God is with us’

Romans 1: 1-7
Paul tells Christians that by the grace of God they belong to God and are called to holiness.

Matthew 1: 18-24
Joseph is told in a dream that he should not be afraid, but should welcome Mary into his home.  Her son is to be named Jesus.

Isaiah 35: 1-6. 10
Isaiah strengthens the people by foretelling the coming of the Lord.  His coming will put an end to sadness and bring eternal joy.

James 5: 7-10
James recognises the restlessness of the community and encourages the practice of patience.

Matthew 11: 2-11
Jesus tells the disciples of John the Baptist to return to him and tell the Baptist of the wonders they have seen the Lord do.

Isaiah 11: 1-10
The prophet foretells the coming of the Messiah, bringing peace and the knowledge of the Lord.

Romans 15: 4-9
Paul exhorts his readers to take courage from the example of the faithful, and reminds them that Jesus came to spread the word among ‘pagans’.

Matthew 3: 1-12
John the Baptist baptises many people, and tells the Pharisees and Sadducees not to rely on their inheritance as Abraham’s descendants.  He prophesies the coming of the Messiah.