Open Heart (Lk 2:34-35) by Dr. Rich Reich

15 Sep Open Heart (Lk 2:34-35) by Dr. Rich Reich

“Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, ‘Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted and you yourself a sword will pierce so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.’” ~ Lk 2:34-35 (full readings)
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Rich’s Reflections:  When we are hurt, we naturally put up a guard to protect ourselves from further injury.  Women who have been hurt by abortion may bury thoughts of their unborn child, avoid interacting with children, or even rally with the pro-abortion movement to help pacify their guilt by justifying their abortion.  When Mary, Jesus’ mother, was hurt by the death of her son, she did just the opposite; she opened herself up to others even more.  Mary is often pictured with her immaculate heart exposed.  In fact, when Mary’s heart was pierced with the sword of sorrow, she not only opened her heart but the hearts of others also, so that “the thoughts of many hearts” were revealed (Lk 2:35).  Avoid the natural tendency to close your heart to others due to feelings of unforgiveness, resentment, hatred, anger, manipulation, or fear.  Repent your sins and know that you are forgiven.  Only then will you be able to begin the healing process and open your heart to others like Mary.
* Dr. Rich Reich is the co-founder of the National LIFE Runners Team.  He is married to Erica and lives in Colorado Springs, CO.  Full bio.
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Faith Challenge:  Allow God to mend your broken heart so that you may open it for others.

Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, LifeNews, American Family, Vatican, Project Rachel..
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Our Prayers: Pray LIFE Runners Creed to End Abortion.  Add Prayers. Pray with meals, bedtime, wake up, unceasingly. Consider mid-week Family Rosary (17 min). Let’s pray now.
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Feast Day:  Saint Valerian
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Faith Quote:  “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.  Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.
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Through Christ our Lord,
Rich
James 1:22