1 John 4:11-18, Psalm 72, Mark 6:45-52
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/010709.shtml
SHOCKING LOVE
"They were taken aback by these happenings." —Mark 6:51
Throughout Epiphany week, God's word proclaims Jesus' mastery over
creation. He can heal the sick (Monday), multiply food (Tuesday), and walk
on the water (today) (Mk 6:48). These miracles show us Jesus' almighty
power and how much He emptied Himself (Phil 2:7) when He became a helpless
Infant. The all-powerful Creator of the world could not walk, talk, or
roll over. The second Person of the blessed Trinity talked baby-talk, wet
His diapers, and spit out His food. Almighty God weighed just a few
pounds, shivered, cried, and nursed at His mother's breast.
The message of Christmas and God's incarnation is shocking. He Who created
the billions of galaxies with billions of stars, Who created the countless
creatures on this little planet, became completely dependent on His
parents, just like us. It seems almost blasphemous to suggest that God
became a weak human being. Yet He did, out of love for us, and amazingly,
"we must have the same love for one another" (1 Jn 4:11). "If we love one
another God dwells in us" (1 Jn 4:12). "God is Love, and he who abides in
Love abides in God, and God in him" (1 Jn 4:16). The meaning of Christmas
is shocking, but ultimately, it is love.
Prayer: Infant Jesus, I prostrate myself before You in homage.
Promise: "Love has no room for fear." —1 Jn 4:18
Praise: St. Raymond used his gifted intelligence to further the truth and
to encourage others to do the same.
(The Wise Men followed the star and sought the King. We too are called to
"Seek First the Kingdom of God." Attend a retreat by that title in
Cincinnati on Feb. 28th. This retreat will help you put your priorities in
a "right order." Call 937-587-5464 or 513-373-2397 to register.)
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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant my
permission to publish "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from
December 1, 2008 through January 31, 2009
†Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of
Cincinnati, June 17, 2008
The rescript 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 ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or
statements expressed.
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