“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)
Reflection:
The four calling birds represent the four Gospels that proclaim the Good News of Christ. How can you live out the Gospel message this Christmas?
Questions to Ponder:
- How do I hear God calling me to share His message?
- What actions can I take to embody the Gospel in my community?
The gift of “four calling birds” traditionally symbolises the four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These “calling birds” are voices that proclaim the Good News to the world, each with its unique tone and perspective.
The Gospels as Voices Calling Out
Each Gospel offers a distinct yet harmonious account of Jesus’ life, ministry, death, and resurrection. Together, they form a multifaceted tapestry of God’s redemptive work in Christ.
- Matthew emphasizes Jesus as the promised Messiah, the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. Writing primarily for a Jewish audience, Matthew’s Gospel showcases Jesus as the King who establishes God’s kingdom on earth. His message calls us to see Jesus as the long-awaited Savior who bridges the covenant promises of old with their ultimate fulfillment.
- Mark is the shortest and most action-packed Gospel. It presents Jesus as the Suffering Servant and the Son of God. Mark’s urgency compels readers to respond immediately to the call of discipleship. His “calling bird” voice reminds us that following Christ is a dynamic journey of faith.
- Luke provides a comprehensive and compassionate account, emphasizing Jesus’ humanity and concern for the marginalized. Luke’s Gospel calls us to recognize God’s inclusive love and to live lives marked by mercy, justice, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
- John, distinct from the other three, soars like an eagle into the divine mystery of Christ. His Gospel highlights Jesus as the Word made flesh, offering eternal life to all who believe. John’s voice calls us into a deeper relationship with God through Christ, emphasizing the power of belief and abiding in Him.
The Gospels in Our Lives
The four calling birds remind us that the Good News is meant to be heard and shared. Like birds that sing and call out, the Gospels proclaim God’s love, inviting us to join the heavenly chorus. But how do these voices resonate in our daily lives?
- Listening to the Call: Engage with the Gospels regularly. Each time you read, listen for God’s personal message to you. Matthew’s teachings might challenge your understanding of God’s kingdom. Mark’s urgency may inspire action. Luke’s compassion might move you to serve others, and John’s depth could deepen your faith.
- Living the Message: The Gospels don’t just inform us; they transform us. They call us to align our lives with Christ’s teachings, embodying His love and grace in our relationships, communities, and world.
- Proclaiming the News: As Christians, we’re called to be messengers of the Gospel. Share its hope and truth through your words, actions, and prayers. Be a “calling bird” in your own sphere of influence, echoing the Good News that has transformed you.
A Symphony of Proclamation
As we reflect on the “four calling birds” this Christmas season, let us remember that their song is not just for the past but for today. The Gospels call us to hear, live, and share the eternal melody of God’s grace. May their voices continue to inspire us to proclaim the Good News with courage, clarity, and joy.
Reflection Questions:
Listening to the Call
- Which Gospel resonates most with you right now, and why?
- How do you hear God’s personal message through the voices of Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John?
Living the Message
- What specific teaching or example from the Gospels challenges or inspires you to live more like Christ?
- In what ways can you embody the compassion of Luke, the urgency of Mark, the inclusiveness of Matthew, or the depth of John in your daily life?
Proclaiming the News
- How can you act as a “calling bird” and share the Good News with others in your sphere of influence?
- What steps can you take to align your words and actions with the transformative message of the Gospels this Christmas season?
The Fourfold Harmony
- How do the different perspectives of the Gospels enrich your understanding of Jesus and His mission?
- What can you learn from the unity and diversity within the four Gospel accounts about the nature of faith and community?