Keep and Ponder
Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God (A, B, C)
Read this Gospel passage aloud to the family
Luke 2:16-21 - 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. All who heard it were amazed by what had been told them by the shepherds. And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told to them.
When eight days were completed for his circumcision, he was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
(Parent) Reread this part a few times aloud
“Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart.”
(Parent) Read this meditation aloud to the family
So great is Mary! She is our guide in the Christian life. More than that, she is our loving Mother in the Christian life. Children must learn from their mothers. Mary does not only receive Christ in her womb (at the Annunciation), she also receives him constantly “in her heart.” This is an action that is repeated by her in the Gospels: “she kept these things, reflecting on them in her heart.”
How does Mary receive and keep Christ? By reflection in her heart. How will we receive and keep Christ? By reflecting on Him in our hearts. (Spending time daily in reflection and Christian meditation is a great resolution for the new year!) Follow the example of our Mother. The best way to do this is by watching her repeatedly. During our prayer, reflect specifically on Mary and her loving attention to Christ. Think also of one way to imitate Mary’s attention to Christ. Ask her (as her child) to help us to be more like her.
As a family, pray a portion of the Rosary together (very short if children are young) reflecting on the Scripture passage above. (Optional: allow a brief time for discussion or questions from children concerning their thoughts and prayer.)
Reminder for Parents: Pier is just meant to be a jumping off point. The real goal is that you pray & eventually use the fruits of your personal prayer as the content of your family’s prayer. Duc in altum.
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