This Child
December 23rd
Read this Gospel passage aloud to the family
Luke 1:57-66- When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son. Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her. When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said in reply, “No. He will be called John.” But they answered her, “There is no one among your relatives who has this name.” So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called. He asked for a tablet and wrote, “John is his name,” and all were amazed. Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God. Then fear came upon all their neighbors, and all these matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea. All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, “What, then, will this child be?” For surely the hand of the Lord was with him.
(Parent) Reread this part a few times aloud
“…they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said in reply, “No. He will be called John.”
(Parent) Read this meditation aloud to the family
Most people don’t like to be confrontational—they don’t like to upset others. And while there are certainly some people who are all too ready to be confrontational, most of us could use a bit of extra courage. So it is refreshing to see Elizabeth stand up against her relatives who are trying to push their ideas, which are against what she knows to be right. After a time of disagreement she takes her firm stand, “No. He will be called John.”
People of faith need to take a stand. We need to take a stand especially in regard to faith and family. Sometimes this means disagreeing with, and even engaging in confrontation with relatives and friends. God has put parents in charge of their children, and expects them to do what is best for their children’s souls and their true happiness. If our family is not having some confrontation, some push back, or some differences from other families, we should ask ourselves if we are being serious enough about living our faith. Families of faith take a stand.
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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