Weekly Meditation December 28, 2009

In the midst of these Christmas time days in our liturgical year, yesterday we celebrated the Feast of the Holy Family. Christmas, among other things, calls our attention to the essential reality and value of family life. We also cherish the joys of family gatherings during Christmas time. Our society is built on the basic unit of the family. God chose family as the means of sending our Savior, Jesus, the Word made flesh. What a priceless gift for those of us who are part of a good Christian family with mother and father who love their children and help them learn how to live and love reaching maturity with the art and virtue of living and loving in our Catholic community and our society.

January 1 we celebrate the Solemnity of the Divine Motherhood of Mary. We know it, of course, as New Year's Day in our civic life. We remember that total gift of herself: "I am the handmaid of the Lord, let it be done to me according to your word." May the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph always inspire us to promote and be part of solid Catholic family living.

Father in heaven, creator of all, you ordered the earth to bring forth life and crowned its goodness by creating the family of man. In history's moment when all was ready you sent your Son to dwell in time, obedient to the laws of life in our world. Teach us the sanctity of human love, show us the value of family life, and help us to live in peace with all men that we may share in your life for ever.

Alternative Prayer--Holy Family Sunday