Perhaps you are familiar with the icon of Our Lady of Vladimir? In it the baby Jesus reaches his tiny hands around his mothers neck and looks into her eyes.
Catherine Cavadini Ph.D wrote this Gaudete Sunday
This mother child tenderness represents the true exchange of love and unity possible even now in the midst of pandemic darkness.
And then… what is it we can do? Return this look of tenderness for us and each other with thanksgiving! Just look and notice everyone you encounter.
“For me,” St. Therese tells us, “prayer is a surge of the heart; a simple look turned toward heaven…”
Let us remember this Christmas Eve that love was born in us and into the world and gratefully remember our mothers tender embracing.
Then… simply trust all will be well.
2021 Christmas blessings.