Merry 8th Day of Christmas

Merry 8th Day of Christmas 

A New Years Day tradition I had with my mom was to attend 9:00am Mass at our church to observe the Solemnity of Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God. My mom had a devotion to the Blessed Mother for as long as I could remember. Even though I went to Mass with my mom very often, it was always a special time for me to attend this particular Mass with her each year. 

This is the fourth New Year I am starting without my mom here on this earth. I’m so glad for the many, many years we had the chance to spend this day together and very much miss doing that with her once again.  

I like that the First Reading at Mass, from Numbers, is read on this day. It was one of mom’s favorites and I think of her when I read it.  

The LORD said to Moses: “Speak to Aaron and his sons and tell them: This is how you shall bless the Israelites. Say to them: The LORD bless you and keep you! The LORD let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you! The LORD look upon you kindly and give you peace! So shall they invoke my name upon the Israelites, and I will bless them.”
~Numbers 6:22-27 

Why maids a-milking on the Eighth Day of Christmas? 

This is to recall the eight Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) 

• Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
  · Blessed are the meek: for they shall possess the land.
  · Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
  · Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice: for they shall have their fill.
  · Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
  · Blessed are the clean of heart: they shall see God.
  · Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
  · Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

I like beginning the New Year by attending Mass, celebrating Mary and remembering my mom. We have a blessing from Numbers and guidance in the Beatitudes. A match well made! 

I wish all readers a blessed New Year! 

Merry Christmas, Karen 

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