Give someone a hug today

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ: Have you ever felt that overwhelming need for love? Just wanted to be hugged? Nothing says love and comfort like a good hug. When I was a little boy, I loved to crawl into my mom or dad’s lap. Now my dad may have squeezed a little too hard at times, but it didn’t matter – it felt good. Nothing symbolizes the true joy of love then a mother hugging her little child. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be hugged by God, to crawl up in his lap and just sit there while he comforted you and loved you? Well the good news is that God’s arms are always open and always waiting for us to make the move. We can crawl into his lap any time we want. Close your eyes and let all the cares of the world leave your mind. Imagine you are sitting with Christ in all his glory, his robes brighter than the midday sun, his grace flowing from him like the rays of light. Crawl into his lap and let his arms wrap around you. Say a prayer with Christ as he comforts you. Today’s Gospel (Matthew 5:43-48)commands us to love. To love not only our brothers and sisters, but our enemies. Those people we do not like, those people we have unpleasant discourse. Jesus commands us to “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father…” Yes, we are commanded to love our enemies, such a simple request, such a difficult task. Imagine that you are now in God’s lap, you are warm and comfortable, the joy of the Lord has made you at peace. Now invite your enemies to join you, invite those people who persecute you to sit with you in the Glory of God. A Simple Prayer “Father, you have declared you love for me. I don’t deserve your love, but I open my heart to receive it. Soften my heart toward the others whom you love so much. Help me grow in confidence that together you and I can handle everything that comes my way today.” Pray to the Blessed Mother that she may intercede in your life. It is Mary’s motherness that brings compassion to us. Mary is our Holy mother who looks over us. Say a Hail Mary for peace in the world. Let us seek the light of God’s glory, let us give praise to his name. Michael Marcon PS Give someone a hug today.