31 Dec
Mon
7th Day within the Octave of Christmas
1 Jn. 2:18-21
Ps. 95:1-2,11-12,13
Jn. 1:1-18
(Psalter proper)
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It is so easy to be complacent about belonging to Christ, to glory in the satisfaction of crowded churches. Just before the civil war in Spain the churches were crowded, but a week later many of the same crowds were burning them down. When crisis comes, those who never really belonged to Christ will be shown up. John speaks of such people as Anti-Christs and the fact that they were so active in his community convinced him that it must be the last hour. The moment of the final hour has still not come. And yet, every hour is the last hour, because in every decision we are shaping our destiny - for Christ or against Him, growing in the life and light of Christ or heading towards darkness, sin and death.

Before Vatican II the opening chapter of John's Gospel concluded the Mass. Christians left the Eucharistic celebration with this great hymn ringing in their ears. It is a perfect summary of what might be called the Christian world-view: Jesus as the centre of the universe with God before time began. To see the world in this light is to share in the life and light of God Himself, and it is through Jesus that we can do this.



Lord, You are the centre of my life.

DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That human society may be solicitous in the care of all those stricken with AIDS, especially children and women, and that the Church may make them feel the Lord's love.
Elaboration

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