Joy is comprised of only three letters of the alphabet, yet it comprises so much more.

Did you know JOY is used 172 times in the Bible?

Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI calls the Holy Spirit, the “Spirit of eternal joy” constantly emphasizing that Christianity, which really begins with the angel’s words to Mary, is an invitation to joy. (This is also why he is known as the Theologian of joy.)

Here we are amidst so much strife and uncertainty, so many of us will spend Christmas in a different manner than ever before! My husband is working (thank God he has a job) this Christmas. Most of our family cannot be with us this year too!

Yet I can remember that same invitation for joy, is right here for you and me this Christmas!!!

Come meet Him in the manger this Christmas!

Let us remember that Mary is at the same time the Daughter of Zion and the true Israel, in whom the old and new covenants, Israel and the Church are inseparably one. She teaches us what the Church is to be, namely, God’s dwelling place.

Mary also teaches us to place our trust in God in an attitude of complete openness, and self-giving. In doing so, she indicates where we will find true joy. 

Thank you Blessed Mother for being our Mother, guiding us towards the true JOY in our lives.

As Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI puts it: “Marian devotion is the rapture of joy over the true, indestructible Israel; it is a blissful entering into the joy of the Magnificat and thereby it is the praise of him to whom the daughter Zion owes her whole self and whom she bears, the true, incorruptible, indestructible Ark of the Covenant.”

Daughter Zion, p. 82

So it is with a heart, seeking true JOY, that leads me to pray the JOYFUL Mysteries this Christmas for all of us.

I will keep your intentions in my heart as I pray and meet Jesus in the manger! Please pray for my family!

“Rejoice! Jesus Christ, Our Savior is Born!

Merry Christmas!