Reflection: Be not afraid...

When we look around us, there is so much beauty in this world. God our Loving Father is the Creator of everything. He created the heavens and the earth and He created you and me.

"For by Him, all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him." Colossians 1:16 

Amidst all the beauty in the world, there is much darkness. Sin entered the world. We see war between nations and people, war on the unborn, the elderly, the disabled and marginalized. We see terrorism, political unrest, injustice, genocide, hatred, prejudice, disrespect and harsh language.

Be not afraid.

We can not focus on the darkness. Jesus is the light. Keep your eyes fixed on Him.

"All things came to be through Him, and without Him, nothing came to be. What came to be through Him was life, and this life was the light of the human race, the light that shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:3-5

A baby growing in the womb of a mother is a miracle and the most beautiful gift from God. In order to grow, the baby receives nutrition from the mother through the umbilical cord. Mother and child attached through a cord...

How do we stay attached to Jesus?

We stay close to Jesus by receiving the Sacraments frequently, especially the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Eucharist.

We feed our minds and hearts by reading the Scriptures and spending time in prayer daily. Praying in Eucharistic Adoration, we are truly in the Presence of Jesus, Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity. Praying the Rosary daily keeps us close to Jesus and Mary as we contemplate the mysteries of their lives.

"Do not fear, I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

Be not afraid.

Whatever you are afraid of, bring it to Jesus and Mary as you pray the Rosary. Pray for peace in the world, for the conversion of sinners, for an end to abortion, the greatest destroyer of peace. Pray for the conversion of leaders to protect life from the beginning to the end. Pray for healing in your family and in all families. Pray for an end of terrorism. Pray, pray, pray...

Do not be afraid of the things you see happening all around you. Keep yourself and your loved ones attached to Jesus and Mary through the Sacraments and the Rosary. These are your weapons against the turmoil of the world. When we turn to Mary, she brings all our fears and concerns to Jesus.

"Peace I leave you, My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives, do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27