Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

I can't believe it has been a month since my last blog. Time flies when you are having fun. I have had a great holiday season. Mandy is back home for now and Danny is in town for work. Having the whole family together is the best gift for me. From Thanksgiving on we have had some great family times. Certainly as with all families we have are challenges, disagreements and tough situations. But I wouldn't trade any of it for a million dollars.

Steve, Alex and I stumbled on a movie last night called "Courageous". Absolutely amazing movie. A movie about faith, fatherhood and living your faith, answering your call. What is your vocation? I mean your true vocation. What has God called you to be? A father, mother, religious person, single person.... Whatever your vocation, do it with love, honor, dignity and faith in God. What a great message for us all.

At Christmas, a time when we remember the coming of Christ as a humble baby. Born in a stable, laid in a manger. He came to unite man and God. To make us a part of God. He was truly man and truly God. He was born to a simple virgin woman. Cared for by a simple hard working man. Both of his earthly parents were humble faithful people. They lived their calling with faith, dignity and honor.

He came to show us how much God loves us. To teach us to love simply, care deeply and do the right thing. To show us that God exists and wants us to come home. As much as I love my children and enjoy having them home. God wants that for us.

I know all that God wants of me. I strive for it but fall short. I get back up and keep trying. When I take one measly hour of my life on Sunday for Him. I stand, kneel and sit before Him. I humbly ask for forgiveness. I am reminded of His message. I adore Him and start again.

He came for all people. Jews, pagans, and gentiles. We celebrate Christmas during the solstice for the similar reasons. Christians are made up of Jews, pagans and all. We have incorporated all of who we are. At the darkest of days remembering the Light of the World coming to us. I know Jesus' birth was probably not on Dec 25th. But celebrate it with all Christians on this day as a matter of tradition and unity.

As we begin a new year, 2012. I will strive for living my faith. I will love more deeply, laugh more, hug more, pray more. (maybe try to eat less and exercise more)

Happy New Year!!
May 2012 bring you and your family more joy than sorrow. More love than hurts.