Saturday, January 01, 2011

Abba, Father!

January 1, 2011
The Octave Day of Christmas
Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God

So they went in haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known the message that had been told them about this child. All who heard it were amazed by what had been told them by the shepherds. And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. Luke 2:16-19

Piety
The LORD bless you and keep you!
The LORD let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you!
The LORD look upon you kindly and give you peace! Numbers 6:24-26

Study
There is a great song our Joyful Noise choir sings where the lyrics ask, “How Can I Keep from Singing?” These Christmas stories in the Gospel over the past week reminded me of that song. We have heard about Joseph and Mary, Simeon and Anna, and now the shepherds. When they encounter the Lord, they not only had a close moment with God, they turned that encounter into action. They could not help but spread the message.

May our encounter with the Christ-child in all the people we meet inspire us to do the same throughout this New Year.

Action
How will you evangelize the message of love sent through the Baby Jesus throughout this New Year? Make a plan and write down your actions for each week or each day.

There are two new Cursillo teams in formation. Two ways to start the year right is through Palanca for the teams and/or by helping to introduce Cursillo to potential candidates. Remember, before you talk to your friend about God, talk to God about your friend. Then, as they say on the weekend, “Make a friend. Be a friend. Bring your friend to Christ.”

HAPPY NEW YEAR!