Monday, January 1
Scripture
Nm 6:22-27
Ps. 67: 2-3, 5-6, 8
Gal. 4:4-7
Lk.2:16-21
Reflection
“May the Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace!” Nm.6 :26
Today, we celebrate Mary. From her, a woman, salvation came forth. We also celebrate today the 56th World Day of Peace. I invite us to become aware of how Mary, our Mother, is so intimately united to all of us. She has appeared through the ages in all parts of the world, to all her children, no matter the culture, race, or language. Always with a similar message of love for each us and of hope, peace, and reconciliation among our diversity. Pope Francis reminds us:” God has a Mother and is thus bound forever to our humanity, like a child to its mother, to the point that our humanity is his humanity.” (Homily, Jan. 1, 2023). Let us remember our brothers and sisters throughout the world who are victims of war, passing this holiday in darkness and cold, in poverty and fear, immersed in violence and indifference.
Prayer
Mary, Mother of the Prince of Peace, pray for us!
Personal Challenge
Today, pray and act for peace in solidarity with the neighbors around you and in the world;
always from a stand of gratitude, for God has done
great things in us and for us.
Look not at what is wrong with the world,
but for what we are grateful.
Sister Ily Fernandez, CSJ
Wheeling, WV
