Blessings!

Cycle B, Solemnity of Mary, mother of God

Our readings today call us to recognize our blessings in the most profound ways possible.  "May the Lord bless you and keep you!"  The best expression of a blessing is that of Mary "who pondered all these things in her heart."

How do we express authentic thanks for all the blessings bestowed upon us by the Almighty?

"Blessing" has its roots in Hebrew "Brk" which means "to bend the knee" in worship and praise.  God is the source of all blessings; he bestows us His happiness that no one can ever take away.  We may bend our knees all the time to our loving Lord, knowing that He grants us every good gift.

It may also have its roots in the Greek word "eulogein" which means "to speak well of" or "to praise".  Perhaps we may think of the many persons who have touched our lives and filled us with love, for they are indeed God's gifts to us.

Mary reflected on the good news of angels as told by the shepherds.  May we also take time to ponder where the real gifts of God are - in the scarcity of life, the every essence of being comes out - that all of us rely totally on the mercy of God.  By the conduct of our lives, may we inspire others to make life an act of thanksgiving and total service to the Lord and others.

May this inspiring thought help us to face the New Year with gladness and be filled with hope and love.  Life is a blessing; everything is a blessing from the Almighty Lord!

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