Service with a smile.

Lectionary: 349
Reading 1
Responsorial Psalm
Gospel
St. Philip Neri


St. Philip Neri was the kind of guy you want to have at your party. He was jovial and known for his good nature. He was social and fun. He was also deeply spiritual and lived to serve others, especially the youth. What a great example of joyful spirituality for our families! 
One more thing: Jesus tells us if we wish to be great, we must be a slave of all. Sounds dreary, right? Do your kids every complain of being the servant or having to do everything or heave a big sigh when reminded of chores? We often have the wrong idea about service. Using St. Philip's example, teach your family to approach service as an opportunity to get to heaven. St. Philip used music and laughter to motivate and attract people to Christ. What are some ways you use to remind your family to perform service with a smile? 
Prayer: Lord Jesus, like James and John, I want to be close to you in eternity! Give me a spirit of joyful service so that others, especially my family, will see you in me. In your name I pray, Amen. St. Philip, pray for me.