god's family tree
"Now will I praise those godly men, our ancestors, each in his own time." —Sirach 44:1
Think of your godly ancestors. Think of the person that taught you to pray, of Grandma who "prayed all the time," of Dad's holy boldness, and of Uncle Joe, who loved the Church (see Eph 5:25) and died with Jesus' precious name on his lips.
Remember the virtues of the godly men and women in your life (Sir 44:10). Recall Dad's honesty, courage, justice, and love. Think of Mom's purity, kindness, faithfulness, and love.
Thank God for every Christian you've ever met. Thank God especially for the Christians in your ancestry and in your more immediate family. "Their wealth remains in their families, their heritage with their descendants; through God's covenant with them their family endures, their posterity, for their sake" (Sir 44:11-12). You are blessed because of those who have gone before you. "Their bodies are peacefully laid away, but their name lives on and on" (Sir 44:14).
What spiritual heritage are you giving to the next generation? Will your children, grandchildren, friends, etc. retell your wisdom at family gatherings and proclaim your praise at church? (Sir 44:15) Will God and your family be proud of you and your holy life?
Prayer: Father, may ages to come call me blessed (see Lk 1:48).
Promise: "When you stand to pray, forgive anyone against whom you have a grievance, so that Your heavenly Father may in turn forgive you your faults." —Mk 11:25
Praise: Bonita and her four children have volunteered to pack and mail One Bread, One Body for more than a decade. The children are now teenagers, and each one is active in ministry in the church. The book you are reading may have been provided to you by this holy family.
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Robert L. Hagedorn, November 9, 1996
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, November 15, 1996