Opening Prayer: Jesus, Our Treasure
O, Jesus, you descended in the fullness of time from the royal throne; O you who are most desired of all. You came from the height of heaven to visit us, and we are overwhelmed with joy, for as soon as the eternal Father had seen you born in our flesh, he made the angels proclaim peace and grace to all of good will. Freeing us from all misery, the Father gave us his kingdom and filled us with all your good. Make our hearts open and able to hold so great a treasure. Amen.
Fruit of the Spirit: Faithfulness
Scripture: Sirach 6:14-16
Faithful friends are a sturdy shelter; whoever finds one finds a treasure. Faithful friends are beyond price, no amount can balance their worth. Faithful friends are life-saving medicine; those who fear God will find them.
Action for the Day: Saints Basil and Gregory Nazianzen were the closest of friends. They attended academy together where their reputations for holiness and great learning resounded. It was said of them that they were two bodies sharing one spirit. Their faithfulness to each other and to Christ remained throughout their lives as they both became bishops and defended the faith against heresies. Continuing in the season of Christmas today go out of your way to make acts of friendship towards those to whom you wish to demonstrate the Spirit of faithfulness.