Deacon Michael's Homily for New Year's Day 2015

Homily for the Solemnity of Mary, The Mother of God 2015

(Text Only)

Also Includes the Novena to Our Lady Undoer of Knots

 - A Favorite Devotion of Pope Francis.

On the 8th day of the Christmas Octave, the Church celebrates Mary’s earliest defining title – Mother of God.

Today we also begin a new year. We look at what lies ahead of us, and we wonder what it will be like.

Yet we also look back on the last year, and see what it has been.

So as we look at what lies before us and what lies behind, the Church invites us to look at Mary.  Yes, we look at Mary and we ponder with her.

"Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart."

Mary "pondered the marvels of the Lord" and practiced "silence of the heart."

As we begin the New Year, consider making one resolution that will help you with all your others.

Set aside a time each day to Silence your Heart. Maybe in the morning or in the evening (like Pope Francis) - or at least one intentional moment when you Silence your heart.

"To make possible true inner silence, try to practice:

Silence of the Eyes: Seek always the beauty and goodness of God everywhere. Close your eyes to the faults of others and to all that is sinful to the soul.

Silence of the Ears:  Listen always to the voice of God and to the cry of the poor and the needy.  Close your Ears to the voices such as gossip and uncharitable words.

Silence of the Tongue:  Praise God and speak His Word, which enlightens inspires, brings peace, hope, and joy.

Silence of the Mind:  Open it to the truth and knowledge of God in prayer and contemplation.  Close your Mind to destructive thoughts and false suspicions of others.

Silence of the Heart: Love God with our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and love one another as God loves us. 

Our 2nd reading tells us that God has sent the Spirit of Jesus into our hearts.

So like our Mother Mary, we ponder and treasure.

What lies behind us and what lies before us cannot be compared with what lies within us.

Yes, we have the Spirit of Jesus within us.

So let us give thanks and praise the Lord all the days of the year ahead.

May we also devote ourselves to the motherly care and guidance of Mary.

As you Silence your Heart, you may become aware of the Knots in your life that need to be undone.  Pray the Novena to Mary Undoer of Knots - a favorite of Pope Francis.

Mary Undoer of Knots.

An Overview of A favorite devotion of Pope Francis

Novena to Our Lady Undoer of Knots

In our 1st Reading, The Lord tells Moses how Aaron and his sons shall bless the Israelites.

This blessing has passed the test of time. St. Francis, himself a deacon, used these words to bless others. Rabbis, priests, deacons, ministers and parents have all employed this blessing.

During a baptism I always encourage parents - and godparents – to bless their children and spouse.  Using either this blessing or simply say "The Lord bless you.”

A person who blesses their child forms a strong bond between the two of them. That bond can motivate a person to overcome many obstacles.

As we begin the New Year, I ask you to consider a second resolution: Bless those who are close to you. Your blessing will help them – and it will also help you.

I would like to conclude with the blessing Moses taught to his brother Aaron:

The LORD bless you and keep you!

The LORD let his face shine upon you,

and be gracious to you!

The LORD look upon you kindly and give you peace!  Amen!

Have a very Blessed Christmas Season

and Happy New Year!

Praise be Baby Jesus, Now and Forever, Amen!