Fri., Jan. 1: Num 6:22-27; Gal 4:4-7; Luke 2:16-21

Mary, Mother of God

The Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace!

The words the Lord offers Moses to bless the Israelites are appropriate for all of us as we embark on this new year. The Hebrew word for peace suggests hap­piness and prosperity. The blessing gives us gentle and comforting images of the Lord smiling and looking kindly on us — of the Lord’s face shining upon us. How God’s face must have shone on Mary when he entrusted her to bear his son! This year, let’s resolve to look gratefully upon the many gifts and blessings we’ve received and to offer a confident yes to every opportunity we have to serve the Lord. Let our actions reflect our desire to bring a smile to God’s face.

*May we praise and glorify God and live each day in amazement at the power and wonders of our Lord, we pray.