The Feast of the Circumcision of the Lord, celebrated traditionally on January 1st, commemorates an important event in the life of Jesus Christ: His circumcision according to the Law of Moses. This feast reflects profound theological significance, highlighting Christ’s obedience to the Law and His entry into the covenant of Abraham. It was once widely celebrated in the Church, particularly in the pre-1969 liturgical calendar.
Hagiographical Context
The Circumcision of Our Lord is not tied to a specific saint but is instead centered on Jesus Himself. Hagiography traditionally explores the lives of saints, yet in this instance, we delve into the sacred mystery of Jesus’ humanity and His role as the Redeemer.
Scriptural Foundation
The Gospel of Luke records this event:
“And after eight days were accomplished, that the child should be circumcised, his name was called JESUS, which was so named by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.” (Luke 2:21)
Theological Significance
- Obedience to the Law: By undergoing circumcision, Christ, who is above the Law, submits to it, demonstrating His humility and solidarity with humanity.
- Foreshadowing the Passion: The shedding of His precious Blood prefigures the ultimate sacrifice on the Cross for the salvation of mankind.
- Name of Jesus: On this day, He is formally given the name Jesus, meaning “God saves,” emphasizing His mission of redemption.
Liturgical Tradition
In the Traditional Roman Calendar, this feast was part of the Octave of Christmas. The focus on the Circumcision intertwined with the honor given to the Holy Name of Jesus, later celebrated separately on January 2nd or the first Sunday of the year.
Spiritual Reflection
- Humility of Christ: Reflect on the humility of Jesus, the eternal Word made flesh, who embraced human suffering and the law for our sake.
- Devotion to the Holy Name: Meditate on the Name of Jesus, a name full of power, grace, and salvation, first proclaimed publicly on this day.
Hagiographical Legacy
Devotion to the Circumcision of the Lord was often promoted by saints, especially in connection to their deep love for the Holy Name:
- St. Bernard of Clairvaux praised the Holy Name of Jesus as a name that brings sweetness, comfort, and salvation.
- St. Alphonsus Liguori, in his writings, emphasized meditating on the first drops of Christ’s Blood as a sign of His infinite love.
Practical Devotion
- Attend or meditate on the Traditional Latin Mass readings for January 1.
- Recite the Litany of the Holy Name of Jesus or the Chaplet of the Holy Name.
- Practice acts of humility and obedience to God’s law in imitation of Christ’s submission.
The feast of the Circumcision, though less emphasized in the modern calendar, remains a profound moment for reflecting on the mystery of the Incarnation and Christ’s mission of redemption.