It's personal

     As I go through the incantations of the litany of the most precious blood of Jesus, I can't help the overwhelming feeling to make it personal. When I read the response "save us" , I want to say "save me",  because I know "I" was part of the heaviness that laid upon Our Lord's shoulders as He carried that cross. Because of "my" sins. Oh how horrible a thought to know "I" was part of our Lord's suffering. 

     I want to run away and hide. But where shall I go that He cannot find me? Just as easy are my horrible sins to the most wonderful and merciful friend our Lord,  I could I ever have, my Shame puts an illumination over my head and I am easily found. 

     The temptations of this world are strong and I find myself surrendering asking for forgiveness a 100 times a day. Begging for another chance. It's personal. Not only for me, but also for Him. How can I keep failing Him when He has been so good to me? We must pray all the more vigilantly for the Holy shield of God's grace. 

     May the gracious God, our Savior, be born in our hearts this Christmas and may Mary's mantle cover us with the graces we need to make it Holy. O come o come Emmanuel.