1 January Mary, the Holy Mother of God
“The shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem 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” (Lk 2:16-17).
Communion Connection –
The shepherds were both special recipients of evangelization (they went in haste because of what "they had been told"), and were evangelizers themselves (“they made known the message”). We can be likewise! If we are open to it, we can be amazed at God’s presence all around us and likewise share that inspiration with others. Like the shepherds of long ago, we can tell the Good News with great faith and enthusiasm, rousing others to reflect on what they hear and to desire to know God more deeply.
Additional Catholic Resources:
USCCB Reflections Video – http://bcove.me/vdl9mir6
8 January The Epiphany of the Lord
“The magi were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh” (Mt 2:10-11).
Communion Connection –
“Overjoyed.” The scriptures paint an image of those searching for the “King of the Jews” as being eager and hope-filled. As magi, and with their prominent gifts, they were likely people of means – yet they were clothed in the virtue of humility as they lay their gifts before the newborn and his mother. They were prepared to surrender themselves to the infant king, and to gift him with the best they had. Let us join them in their manner of approach to our Lord and Savior: eager, humble, and generous.
Additional Catholic Resources:
Audio Homily by Fr. Robert Barron - http://www.wordonfire.org/resources/homily/herod-and-the-magi/950/
USCCB Reflections Video - http://bcove.me/nl79d7t9
15 January Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
“John the Baptist testified further, saying, ‘I saw the Spirit come down like a dove from the sky and remain upon him. I did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘On whomever you see the Spirit come down and remain, he is the one who will baptize with the holy Spirit’” (Jn 1:32-33).
Communion Connection –
John the Baptist shows us how to respond in faith alone. He tells us he “did not know” the Messiah, but because he listened so well to the Father and saw with the eyes of his heart, he was able to recognize God among us. May we be so open to the Spirit at work in our midst!
Additional Catholic Resources:
Audio Homily by Fr. Robert Barron – http://www.wordonfire.org/resources/homily/behold-the-lamb-of-god/782/
USCCB Reflections Video – http://bcove.me/we3viigw
22 January Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
“Jesus left Nazareth and went to live in Capernaum by the sea in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali, that what had been said through Isaiah the prophet might be fulfilled: Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the way to the sea, beyond the Jordan. Galilee of the Gentiles, the people who sit in darkness have seen a great light, on those dwelling in a land overshadowed by dark light has arisen” (Mt 4:13-16).
Communion Connection –
We have only to believe: “Light has arisen.” Not only in biblical days long past but also in today’s world, we may think that we sit in a land overshadowed by darkness. However, to believe in Emmanuel means that we are convinced that God is with us. Encourage one another and keep your minds fixed on a God who is ever present, ever-loving, ever waiting for our faith and trust in Him to be firm.
Additional Catholic Resources:
Audio Homily by Fr. Robert Barron – http://www.wordonfire.org/resources/homily/land-of-zebulon-land-of-naphtali/1023/
USCCB Reflections Video – http://bcove.me/edtlnr83
29 January Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
“Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Mt 5:10).
Communion Connection –
Being persecuted often makes us think of people in far off countries who are being abused for their religious convictions. However, we might reconsider the meaning of righteousness used by our Lord in this passage. “Righteousness” means “right relationship with God, others, and the material world.” To stand up for righteousness can lead to persecution all around us everyday. May God give us the courage to pursue such righteousness, and the strength to endure persecution that we will encounter. Then we will be "the blessed" of Jesus' Kingdom.
Additional Catholic Resources:
Audio Homily by Fr. Robert Barron – http://www.wordonfire.org/resources/homily/blessed-are-we/917/
USCCB Reflections Video – http://www.usccb.org/bible/reflections/index.cfm
