THE GOSPEL
Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23“This was to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord
through the prophet, ‘Out of Egypt I have called my son.’”
The
Hebrews
long ago, eons,
were led out of exile
into Egypt.
Joseph and Mary,
off to Egypt
and then back again,
a salient dream, then another.
Refugees escaping at night with the babe.
Jesus,
did your father
give you to us as our brother
to rescue us from exile of sin and death?
Our Brother, Our Father,
Our Holy Family.
In our exile you bring
such love to us,
more than
we can
bear!
THE FIRST READING
Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14
Those who honor their father will have joy in their own children.
Dear Lord,
your love spreads.
It is catching.
Your love
starts from you,
touches a mother here,
passes along to a father there
and gladdens its way into children’s hearts.
Whenever love settles, it heals,
makes miracles,
then returns
us
to you.
Let us let into your affection,
and make family,
in kindness,
and in
love.
THE SECOND READING
Colossians 3:12-21 or 3:12-17
And over all these put on love ... Let the word of Christ
dwell in you richly.
Christ,
how
greatly
we desire
to put on love,
like clothes we wear,
like the skin we dwell in.
Peace, heart’s yearning,
kindness, humility,
gentleness and
patience.
Let these dwell in us richly.
Let the peace of Christ
guide our hearts
for all time.
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from Religious Clip Art for the Liturgical Year (A, B, and C). This art may be reproduced only by parishes who purchase the collection in book or CD-ROM form. For more information go http://www.ltp.org