Scripture Reading
Micah 5:2
"But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days."
Reflection
On the feast of Mary's birth we remember that salvation has a family tree. Mary was not an accident of history — she was prepared, born in a particular place and time, raised in a tradition of expectation. God works through human lineage and ordinary beginnings to accomplish the extraordinary. The humble birth of a girl in Nazareth would change everything.
Prayer for Today
Lord, I praise you because you have kept me alive all these years. I have lived to see my fiftieth birthday. Thank you for sustaining my life through the ups and downs and always being by my side. You have blessed my life with abundance in all areas and my heart is full of joy.
As I start a new year in life, help me keep trusting in you and never stop believing in your mighty power. You are my God and I have no other and may my eyes be upon you for the rest of my life. I look forward to many more years knowing you have promised me a long and fruitful life. Your plans for my future are perfect and not evil (Jeremiah 29:11).
Give me the strength I need to face life in the second half of my life. May I enjoy the beauty that surrounds me each day and to marvel at your goodness in my life. Help me see my life through your eyes and remember you still have a purpose for me. Your plans for my life have not expired and are valid till the day I leave this earth.
As I start a new year in life, help me keep trusting in you and never stop believing in your mighty power. You are my God and I have no other and may my eyes be upon you for the rest of my life. I look forward to many more years knowing you have promised me a long and fruitful life. Your plans for my future are perfect and not evil (Jeremiah 29:11).
Give me the strength I need to face life in the second half of my life. May I enjoy the beauty that surrounds me each day and to marvel at your goodness in my life. Help me see my life through your eyes and remember you still have a purpose for me. Your plans for my life have not expired and are valid till the day I leave this earth.
Amen.