A Sense of Relief

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It occurred to me on Christmas morning that for this brief period of time, many of us throughout the world will center ourselves around Jesus. It should be a unifying day.

That gives me such a sense of relief, of peace.

But, more than just a day, we have a season! Christmas began on December 25th and concludes on January 8th, the Feast of the Epiphany, so keep your lights shining brightly, and if your tree is healthy enough, enjoy it longer.

While this is a time for celebrations, it is important for us to remember people and places throughout the world who are continuing to experience the violence of war, hunger and poverty. Conflicts abound, and our prayers are needed. We are connected to one another.

For 2024, Pope Francis has asked us to make it a Year of Prayer in preparation for the 2025 Jubilee. He has said in the past that our prayer should come from the heart, stressing that our prayers from the heart should be those that "gaze" on the Lord, "hear" the Lord, and "ask" the Lord.

Pray sincerely, from your heart, with great joy, asking God to bless us with the hope that only he can offer.

Janet Cassidy
janetcassidy.com
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https://www.facebook.com/reflectionsinfaith/

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