Reflection: O Holy Family, pray for us!

As we ponder the Nativity, let us gaze at the Baby Jesus, the Light of the World. He came to us as a little Baby. This is a beautiful image of the Nativity scene. In the painting, circa 1515, art historians and doctors say it depicts a child with Down syndrome as the angel nearest to Mary, possibly the child of the person who commissioned the painting. The painting is called "Adoration of the Christ Child" by Jan Joest of Kalkar in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Let us enter the scene. Mary and Joseph are watching over the newborn King with awe and wonder. They beckon you to come. As you draw close to the Holy Family, the love of Jesus comes pouring into your heart. Kneel before Him and adore Him. As you gaze at the Baby Jesus, He gazes at you with great love.

The John 10:10 Prayer Ministry began through all the prayers offered for a beautiful baby with Down syndrome, Lily Grace. She is now a happy, healthy fourteen year old who brings light and love to everyone who encounters her.

I recall our family was visiting at a beautiful Nativity scene on the grounds of our parish. As we walked up the pathway, the lights suddenly came on shining on the Holy Family. Lily Grace and her little sister Norah, were amazed at how the lights came on at that very moment! As we drew near, they touched the Holy Family, the shepherds and the animals who were near them. Above the Holy Family, is a large Angel, holding a banner, "Gloria in Excelsis Deo Glory to God in the Highest." Norah asked why the angel looked so serious. I told her that the Angel has a very important job: to protect and guide the Holy Family and the Angel took his job very seriously. I explained that God gives each one of us a Guardian Angel who stays with us from the moment we are born to the moment we die. Our guardian angels protect, guide and enlighten us throughout our lives. We can talk to and thank our guardian angel.

O Holy Family, as we gaze at you, your light comes down to shine upon us and we give you our hearts. Saint Joseph and Holy Mary, Mother of God, help us to always keep our eyes fixed on the Baby. Sweet Baby Jesus, the Light of the World, let us look at the angels surrounding You, especially the little angel with Down syndrome, and bow in adoration of You asking for the love and pure heart of this special little angel.  

O Come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.