GOSPEL
From the Gospel according to John
Jn 1:29-34

John the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him and said,
“Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.
He is the one of whom I said,
‘A man is coming after me who ranks ahead of me
because he existed before me.’
I did not know him,
but the reason why I came baptizing with water
was that he might be made known to Israel.”
John testified further, saying,
“I saw the Spirit come down like a dove from the sky
and remain upon him.
I did not know him,
but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me,
‘On whomever you see the Spirit come down and remain,
he is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’
Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God.”

The word of the Lord.

Reclaim the joy that belongs to you.

Today, I take a moment to reflect on the immense love God has for me—He fashioned a soul to house His presence, sent His Son, and bestowed His Spirit upon me for baptism. The depth of God’s love for me! The depth of God’s love for me! The depth of God’s love for me! … (Repeat it slowly until the joy is restored).

Applied to marital life:

Ana: I ask for forgiveness for my words and actions.
Peter: I forgive you. Can you forgive me too?
Ana: Yes, I forgive you.
(Later on, Peter found no joy in his heart, but after confessing and following the priest’s advice to stand before the Lord and feel His love, Manu regained joy in his heart).

Mother,

Every Christmas, you bring and continue to bring joy to our hearts. Thank you, beloved Mother.