Feast of the Holy Family

Jesus not only came as a baby at Christmas, He also entered into a human family - with all the joys and frustrations that go with it.  We are challenged in all relationships, but especially in the family, to put the wants and needs of others before our own, to stretch our hearts, to learn how to love more, to sacrifice for each other.  Our readings today all challenge us to put others first, "Children, obey your parents in everything...Wives, be subordinate to your husbands...Husbands, love your wives."  Jesus loved us, and so He subordinated Himself to our needs, even to the point of death.  We can practice this kind of love every day, especially in the family!

Merry Christmas!

What child is this, who, laid to rest,
On Mary's lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping?

3rd Sunday of Advent

The story of Advent is that the Eternal Son of the Father, God Himself, became human to save us from our sin and show that He IS with us.  God is always with me - every moment of the day.  I’ll be honest, though: that’s really hard to see sometimes.  But it’s the reality!  When I go through my day not consciously experiencing the presence of God with me, that’s living in a fantasy, it’s living in a lie, it’s living with my eyes closed to reality.  God is with me!  The challenge this week: I dare you to try to live one hour of your normal, daily life conscious that Jesus IS with you!