We must learn from Mary, and we must imitate her unconditional readiness to receive Christ in her life.

Unfortunately, what is thrown away is not only food and dispensable objects, but often human beings themselves, who are discarded as 'unnecessary.' For example, it is frightful even to think there are children, victims of abortion, who will never see the light of day; children being used as soldiers, abused and killed in armed conflicts; and children being bought and sold in that terrible form of modern slavery which is human trafficking, which is a crime against humanity.

We ask the risen Jesus, who turns death into life, to change hatred into love, vengeance into forgiveness, war into peace. Yes, Christ is our peace, and through him to implore peace for all the world.

Be close to the poor and to those in need, so as to touch in their flesh the wounded flesh of Jesus. Please, draw near to them!

Are our lives truly filled with the presence of God? How many things take the place of God in my life each day?

What God cares about most is that we are His friends.

We cannot live as Christians separate from the rock who is Christ. He gives us strength and stability, but also joy and serenity.