featured image

Reflect on how to be a missionary in your own home, guiding your children to Jesus through the sacraments and daily Gospel teachings.

Today's Gospel: John 1: 19-28

When I was much younger, before I married and had children, I imagined one day I might be a missionary. I wondered if God was calling me to a life dedicated to caring for His people and teaching the Gospel.
 
At first glance, my life as a stay-at-home mom today feels like a far cry from the heroic life of traveling to far away places and evangelizing that I once thought could be my future. But, as parents, we are the missionaries in the wilds of our own home. How else will our children learn the truth of the Gospel message if not from us? This is not an easy task.
 
In a world filled with contrary voices all competing for the attention of our children, God has chosen us to be the voices crying out in the desert of modern culture to lead the way to Jesus.
 
Just as John the Baptist always pointed not to himself but to Christ as he prepared the way for the Lord, you are being called to evangelize in your own home.
 
God has hand-chosen your particular children for you, knowing that you are the best person for the job of evangelizing them. What better way to evangelize than beginning with baptism and the sacraments?
 
By keeping close to the Church and the sacraments, attending Mass, receiving Jesus in the Eucharist, and getting to Confession when I can, I know I won't be steered wrong and will provide an example for my children to follow.

 

Ponder:

How might you lean into the sacraments of the Church more this year in order to bring your children closer to Jesus?

 

Pray:

Lord, teach me how You want me to bring my children ever closer to You.

 

Pray Together:

Make it a point to do a little something extra to celebrate or mark the baptism days of your children. You can tell them about the day, show them pictures, discuss the importance of the sacraments, or pray a special prayer for that particular child during family prayer time.

 


January 2

Copyright 2026 Margaret Rash

 

About the Author

Margaret Rash

Margaret Rash

Margaret Rash is a Catholic wife, mother, and homeschooler. She writes devotionals, poetry, and short stories, and drinks too much cold brew coffee. Her books are available on Amazon. Find more information on Margaret’s writing at MoGCPress.com or follow her on BookBub!