And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. (Gospel for Jan. 2, Mt 2:9-11)
In so many ways, Jesus was not what was expected. He came to us not as a powerful earthly king or military leader, but as the helpless child of a poor family. Even so, the pagan Magi recognized the child as a newborn king. The true dignity of all human beings can at times be difficult for us to see and recognize. But, like the Magi, may we look past appearances and see the true worth of every human person — and rejoice in the gift of life.
Challenge by Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William E. Lori:
This month, I challenge you to offer one decade of the rosary each day — individually or as a family — for the intention of life. Second, I challenge you to participate with your brother Knights in the Novena for Life, March for Life, and/or Pregnancy Center Support Faith in Action programs.
Questions for Reflection:
How can you live your life in such a way as to inspire a change of hearts and minds to a pro-life position? What concrete actions can you take to build a culture of life, such as supporting pregnancy resource centers? How can you better incorporate praying for life into your own prayer life?