A Note For Expecting Parents (Among Others)

Next week, God-willing, my second daughter will be born. As most expecting parents are experiencing, this time of preparation is different, to say the least.

I am keeping my eyes and heart focused on the miracle in my midst. (This is not easy,  and I no where close to perfect).

I find comfort and perspective from these words from Blessed Frederic Ozanam  (founder of the St. Vincent de Paul Society) on the birth of his first, and only, daughter Marie:

“…I am the guardian and custodian of an immortal creature. […]I will watch over every one of her steps, I will see all the graces of her childhood emerge and when I clasp her in my arms, I will remember that in her there is a soul made for God and for eternity…”

For all expecting parents, might we, in the midst of all the fear and anxiety, keep our eyes and hearts on the soul that God has entrusted to us.

• Might we ask for grace to do our best, and to understand and forgive ourselves when we struggle.
• Might we rest in prayer, allowing our Creator to comfort us, to “fill our cup” with love, and to prepare us for life’s next chapter.
• Might we thank God in gratitude for the gift of mothers, who sacrifice so much to bring life into the world.
• Might we be open to recognize the Spirit moving through us and through the kindness of others.
• Might we thank God Almighty, for the blessings in our lives- especially that of the “immortal creature” in which we serve as their guardian.

Please pray for my wife, daughters, and my family, and I will surely pray for you!

Please feel free to leave any special prayer intentions in the comments section, especially for expecting parents, parents, those who are trying to conceive, those who suffered pain and loss in pregnancy, grandparents, family and friends.