Holy Family
Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14, Colossians 3:12-21, Psalm 128:1-5, Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/122913.cfm
"Herod is searching for the Child to destroy Him." -Matthew 2:13
Modern-day "Herods" are still searching for children to destroy them. These Herods gain entry to the home right under the nose of the parents, who are paralyzed or asleep on the watch. Once the new Herods gain access to the home, they soon attempt to take over formation of the children in that home.
This week, a priest told me that St. Teresa of Avila prophesied in the sixteenth century that evil would come into every home through a black "box." There are many such "boxes" in the modern home. Video games and cartoons often immerse children in violence. The child is gradually de-sensitized to human suffering, which can lead to violent attitudes and behaviors. Television is a major point of entry for modern Herods. Yes, there are godly TV channels and programs. Yet Herod constantly lurks, a mere thumb-click from infiltrating the child's mind and soul. Herod works through the Internet, "prowling like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour" (1 Pt 5:8). Herod enters a child's soul through his ears. Children listen to pagan music with ungodly lyrics for hours through black "boxes" such as i-pods, smart-phones, etc.
Parents, create a holy home environment. With God on your side, you can more than counteract the culture of death. Evict Herod from every room of your home. Welcome Jesus to take Herod's place. Make Jesus the Lord of your home. Your house is His, and He wants it to be "full" (Lk 14:23) of love and faith.
Prayer: Father, give parents the strength to "test everything; retain what is good" (1 Thes 5:21). May parents be holy in their conduct (1 Pt 1:15) so evil has no foothold in the home.
Promise: "Over all these virtues put on love, which binds the rest together and makes them perfect." -Col 3:14
Praise: "Give to the Lord, you families of nations, give to the Lord glory and praise" (Ps 96:7).
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