December 17

"Joy is the true gift of Christmas, not the expensive gifts that call for time and money. We can communicate this joy simply: with a smile, a kind gesture, a little help, forgiveness. And the joy we give will certainly come back to us.... Let us pray that this presence of the liberating joy of God shines forth in our lives."

-Pope Benedict XVI

Today's Reflection:

Christmas day is a week from tomorrow! This week, let's prepare our hearts a little deeper to receive our Lord. Today, how can you "communicate this joy" a tad more? Who can you forgive? Who has God presented to you to help or offer some kindness? In so doing, thank Him for the opportunity to serve and love just a drop more!