There is only a little bit more time until Christmas.  How will you prepare yourself? And in your family, are the preparations already noticeable? Stop for a few moments to contemplate each person with whom you live. Each one has their own way of preparing for Christmas. Give thanks for their qualities as well as for their imperfections…These people are a gift! Although you may have your differences, there is so much to learn from your family!

Prayer

Jesus, Mary and Joseph,

in you we contemplate

the splendor of true love; to you we turn with trust.

Holy Family of Nazareth,

grant that our families too

may be places of communion and prayer, authentic schools of the Gospel

and small domestic churches.

Holy Family of Nazareth,

may families never again experience violence, rejection and division;

may all who have been hurt or scandalized find ready comfort and healing.

Holy Family of Nazareth,

make us once more mindful

of the sacredness and inviolability of the family, and its beauty in God’s plan.

Jesus, Mary and Joseph, Graciously hear our prayer.

Amen.

(Pope Francis, Amoris Laetitia, 325)