Joseph is consistent and reliable, leading the way for his family and providing their protection. Mary takes on the role of nurturing Mother for her newborn son and for the world. The Lord did not march into the world in a display of power and might but was instead welcomed into the world by the grace of a humble woman. “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word,” Mary said.

Gathering in fellowship provides us a special opportunity to learn from the experience, strength, and hope of each other. Like us, the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph found support from God’s messengers as they began their spiritual journey together.

Let us each show the same willingness to reflect on the magnificence of the Lord this Christmas Season. The love and mercy we receive from Him ought to be shared with the world. We can be guided by the Holy Family while remembering the words of Saint Paul in this Sunday’s second reading:

Brothers and sisters:
Put on, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved,
heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience,
bearing with one another and forgiving one another,
if one has a grievance against another;
as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do.
And over all these put on love,
that is, the bond of perfection.
And let the peace of Christ control your hearts,
the peace into which you were also called in one body.
And be thankful.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly,
as in all wisdom you teach and admonish one another,
singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs
with gratitude in your hearts to God.
And whatever you do,
in word or in deed,
do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Reflection Questions

• What is bringing you hope, love, and peace this Christmas?
• How have you become more reliable, predictable, and consistent by being active in recovery and growing in your faith?
• Referring to the instructions of St. Paul that concludes this reflection, what new attitudes and behaviors are you called to focus on developing?

Sunday Mass Readings

First Reading: Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 128:1-2, 3, 4-5.
Second Reading: Colossians 3:12-21 or 3:12-17
Gospel:Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23

Reflection by Scott W.

Download printable meeting reflections:
General Recovery
Family & Friends Recovery
Lust Addiction Recovery

Download virtual meeting reflections:
General Recovery
Family & Friends Recovery
Lust Addiction Recovery