Word to the Wise
Tuesday, January 1, 2013 -
[Numbers 6:22-27; Galatians 4:4-7; Luke 2:16-21]And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. [Luke]
The "Marian" character of this feast day is pretty much overwhelmed by its secular character and perhaps by "Christmas fatigue," but we still have the Magi coming! When I was a boy, the title of the day was "the feast of the Circumcision!" The Second Vatican Council fortunately restored the more ancient title so that preachers don't have to tip toe around the subject, and Moms don't have to explain it to the little ones! (Ask your father!) The celebration focuses now on the motherhood of Mary. There is the obvious fact that she has just become a mom, and there is the broader affection that Catholics have universally for her maternal care. This is evidenced by the multiple devotions dedicated to her. Each of my Beloved Congregation can refer to his or her own relationship to the Mother of God (grand level) or simple a personal spiritual maternal presence. I leave it to you. Luke presents her as the ideal disciple.
On another level, both spiritual and secular, I want to call attention to the first scripture today in Numbers - particularly that blessing! "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." For this New Year 2013, I can't do better than those words in my wishes for each and every one of you! Happy New Year! AMEN
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