December 31, 2023 - One Bread, One Body
December 31, Holy Family
Cycle B Readings:
1) Genesis 15:1-6; 21:1-3
Psalm 105:1-6, 8-9
2) Hebrews 11:8, 11-12, 17-19
Luke 2:22-40
Family feud
“The Child’s father and mother were marveling.” —Luke 2:33
The holy families of today are walking through a mine field. One false step, and the family is blown up. Christian parents must be Josephs who know exactly when to leave and where to go. Parents must be divinely inspired and guided because today even more Herods are searching for their children to destroy them (see Mt 2:13). Parents must know and live the Bible and the teachings of the Church or they will be hopelessly confused, and their families will suffer. Family prayer has never been more necessary. Wives must be submissive and husbands must sacrificially love their wives (Col 3:18-19). Now more than ever, children must obey their parents “in everything as the acceptable way in the Lord” (Col 3:20).
Today’s holy families need order, guidance, prayer, power, and protection. Families need God, His amazing grace, and daily, if not hourly, miracles. Holy families, don’t be discouraged! The Lord promises: “Those who oppose you I will oppose, and your sons [and daughters] I will save” (Is 49:25). “All your sons [and daughters] shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children” (Is 54:13). This Christmas, let these words become flesh in your family (Jn 1:14).
Prayer: Father, may parents be hopeful and confident about their families’ future and eternity because of Your saving love and almighty power.
Promise: “The Child grew in size and strength, filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon Him.” —Lk 2:40
Praise: “Give to the Lord, you families of nations, give to the Lord glory and praise” (Ps 96:7).
Rescript: "In accord with the Code of Canon Law, I hereby grant the Imprimatur ("Permission to Publish") for One Bread, One Body covering the period from December 1, 2023, through January 31, 2024. †Most Reverend Steve J. Angi, Chancellor, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio May 17, 2023."
The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.