Daily Reflections
On the last day of this year, our focus is fixed on the family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. The liturgy continues to invite us to savor the mystery of the Incarnation, the Word becoming flesh. But more than that, our feast invites us to a wonder and awe over…
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The waiting is over. Emmanuel is now with us. God, incarnate in Jesus, has begun His great rescue mission to humanity. Jesus has ransomed captive Israel and all the nations of the earth. The readings today echo the waiting of the Advent season but also recapitulate the exile and glory…
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This is the first time I have seen this painting of the Nativity, which does not seem to be widelyknown. However, the sweetness of the faces of the Holy Family, the light with which the painterhas “caressed” these divine characters, and the soft colors he utilized are nothing short of…
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In Him There is No Darkness at All. Many of my reflections have brought up the theme of light in the darkness and the idea of what each of us can do to open a space in the darkness and bring some light to a situation. Certainly, there is plenty…
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Christmas is a feast that demonstrates God’s love for us in a special way. The newborn child is the savior of the world. The purpose of God becoming human becomes clear as Jesus, the incarnate Son, willingly embarks on a journey that culminates in the ultimate sacrifice on the cross.…
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Merry Christmas everyone! Yesterday, we celebrated the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, and today we are brought to reality with the martyrdom of St. Stephen, the very first martyr of the newly formed Catholic Church. He was stoned to death in Jerusalem, shortly after the death and resurrection of…
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Light is a reality that is often taken for granted in most parts of the developed world. This is not so in most parts of the developing world where light energy is still a luxury commodity. In my part of the world, where most people don’t have the privilege of…
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Dear Gratia Vobis Readers, On this Eve of Christmas, on this Eve of our Savior’s birth, on this Eve of Light, we want to wish you all the best for the Christmas Season. Enjoy the time with your friends and family. Remain Blessed, Paul [Readings: 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a,…
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My dear friends, it is an interesting time as we await the celebration of the birthday of Christ, and the gospel speaks about his cousin John. It recalls his wonderful birth, circumcision, naming celebration, and miraculous restoration of the power of speech to his father Zacharia. Elizabeth and Zacharia have…
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We find today that the Gospel and the Second Reading from the Office of Readings (in the Liturgy of the Hours) is bringing our attention to the Magnificat. During the month of December, we have numerous opportunities to reflect on Our Lady Most Holy and Lady of Consolation. The Magnificat…
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