Holy Family

Recently, a couple traveled the world to receive advice – keys to have a happy marriage

USA – laughter and sense of humor

Israel – Self care

Denmark – put marriage first (put your phone away at meals)

Tanzania – support from friends and family

Mexico – communicate – listen

India – show gratitude

If you are like me – good answers, but something is missing?

A couple, after a number of years, realized their marriage was in trouble. One partner felt it was worth saving, but how?

They were both imperfect but realized he could not change other but he could change himself.

He felt it came down to one simple question – “How can I make your day better?” Must ask sincerely with willingness to do what was needed.

He tried it “How can I make your day better?”  Clean the kitchen – and he did.

Next day – “How can I make your day better?” Clean the garage, and he did.

Next day – “How can I make your day better?” Nothing. He asked for the next two weeks – nothing.

Then she said – I should be asking you!

Now they begin each day – “How can I make your day better?”

Now, we are getting closer! 

Expression in Italian  “Ti Voglio Bene”   Could mean – I love you.  

But a closer translation is  “I want good for you!”

Love is willing the good of the other. By asking – how can I make your day better – how can I love you even more??!!!    And if God is love, when love grows, God grows!

Now we are very close to the key – how to be a Holy Family – to be holy is to do God’s will in everything – to love as God loves.

Pray as a family

Works of mercy together

Meals together

Bless one another

Practice what you preach.

Prayer for Families by Mother Theresa

Heavenly Father,
you have given us the model of life
in the Holy Family of Nazareth.
Help us, O Loving Father,
to make our family another Nazareth
where love, peace and joy reign.
May it be deeply contemplative,
intensely eucharistic,
revived with joy.

Help us to stay together in joy
and sorrow in family prayer.
Teach us to see Jesus in the members of our families,
especially in their distressing disguise.
May the eucharistic heart of Jesus 
make our hearts humble like his
and help us to carry out our family duties
in a holy way.
May we love one another
as God loves each one of us,
more and more each day,
and forgive each other's faults
as you forgive our sins.
Help us, O Loving Father,
to take whatever you give
and give whatever you take with a big smile.

Immaculate Heart of Mary,
cause of our joy, pray for us.

St. Joseph, pray for us.

Holy Guardian Angels,
be always with us,
guide and protect us.

Amen