AdventReflections

2013

The Lexington Catholic Community:Sacred Heart Parish

St. Brigid Parish

An Invitation To JourneyAdvent is a time of preparation, expectation, and waiting. It’s not easy to wait. It is easy to get impatient, and maybe even anxious, when something hasn’t happened that we want to take place. We wonder how the event will turn out, and might worry that it won’t turn out well. History may have taught us that a specific occasion isn’t always happy, despite our best efforts.

So it is with Christmas. The religious significance of the birth of our Savior can be too easily lost in the cultural celebration of parties, holiday cards, and gift-giving. In light of the hectic nature of this time of year, then, we invite you to take comfort in the reassurances of God’s love and presence, as expressed in the reflections in this booklet. Your fellow parishioners, from both sides of town, share their observations on what the daily scriptures of Advent mean to them. Many of the writers are voicing these thoughts for the first time.

As in past years, the reflections strike a personal and a spiritual chord that can be precious. They can be a reason to pause during your day or evening, a time to relax with the Lord, to take stock of your thoughts. They can be the difference between going through December busily and without a break, to thinking of each day as a gift to yourself: becoming closer to God.

We invite you to use this booklet to start on your path to Christmas; not to end your journey with each reflection, but to prompt you to look further into the Scriptures. The references to each day’s readings are listed at the top of each page and the back and inside covers. They are available as well online by day and date at www.usccb.org We thank you for joining us. See you along the way!

~ Nancy Keebler

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December 1, 2013First Sunday of Advent

Isaiah 2:1-5, Psalms 122:1-9; Romans 13:11-14; Matthew 24:37-44

“Brothers and sisters, You know the time, It is the hour now for you to awake from sleep, For our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed, The night is advanced, the day is at hand.” Matthew 24:37-44

Most Americans have experienced opportunities that few people around the world have had. We live in a land of plenty in terms of food and material goods. However, with these benefits goes great responsibility to truly love our neighbors and provide for the less fortunate. These teachings are a wake-up call to commit to a more active role in service.

As I write this, the government is shut down over health care and we are still at war. Swords remain swords when they should be plows. Paul reminds us, as does Jesus in the gospel, that the time for salvation is nearer than we first believed. Since Advent is a time of waiting, it’s also an opportunity to take stock of how we make our lives and activities a preparation for the coming of the Lord!

Dear Lord, help me to be aware of the goodness of each person. Let me find ways to respond to their needs.

~ Kevin

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December 2, 2013Monday of the First Week of Advent

Isaiah 4:2-6; Psalms 122: 1-9; Matthew 8:5-11

“Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; onlysay the word and my servant will be healed.” Matthew 8:8

In Advent of 2011 the church introduced a Revised Roman Missal (the book for celebrating Mass) for English-speaking

countries. One of the changes introduced was the response of the people just prior to receiving Eucharist: “Lord I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.” The intent of the change was to echo the words of the Centurion we heard in today’s Gospel and, more importantly, to imitate his

faith in the Lord.

During this holy season of Advent, the daily readings and the prayers of Mass remind us that we are not worthy of God’s gift of salvation and eternal life. It is through the gift of God’s Son that we receive forgiveness and, strengthened by the Eucharist, the Son’s gift of his Body and Blood, we try our best to grow in faith and persevere in holiness of life.

As we journey together through another Advent season, as we recite those words of the Centurion each time we come to Mass, we are challenged to grow and to imitate his faith and trust in what the Lord can do for us.

Lord, increase my faith that, like the Centurion, I will always trust in you.

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~ Fr. Gerard

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December 3, 2013Tuesday of the First Week of Advent

Feast of St. Francis XavierIsaiah 11:1-10; Psalms 72:1-2, 7-8,

12-13, 17; Luke 10:21-24

“For the wolf shall be the guest of the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid.” Isaiah 11:6

Today’s Advent readings and today’s Saint, both celebrate desires and visions. Advent is a time of longing, of desire. And what could we desire more, in this time of war, governmental dysfunction, and discouragement, than the peaceable kingdom described by Isaiah? Not only wolves hosting lambs, leopards resting with kids, but the earth filled with the knowledge of the Lord as the waters swell the sea. Israelis and Palestinians, Sunnis and Shias, Republicans and Democrats—and yes, maybe some relationships closer to home . . . what a vision! If only peace and justice and knowledge of the Lord inspired all these relationships!

Francis Xavier dedicated his life to bringing this vision to the Far East--India, Japan, Malaysia. He dreamed of going to China, but never made it; illness overtook him and he died about six miles off the China coast. His horizons, his vision, were far beyond what most people of the 1500’s even considered: people halfway across the world waiting to be evangelized.

Isaiah’s vision of a world of peace and justice can seem equally inconceivable to us now. But we await, during Advent, the One sent to inaugurate this vision. And like Francis, we are called to help bring it about. And the Spirit of the Lord, a spirit of wisdom, understanding, counsel and strength, knowledge and fear of the Lord, rests upon us too. We never do this alone.

Jesus, help me to see what you see, to hear what you hear.And help me to share that vision with confidence and courage.

~ Sr. Mary

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December 4, 2013Wednesday of the First Week of Advent

Isaiah 25:6-10a; Psalms 23: 1-6; Matthew 15:29-37

“I shall live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life. Only goodness and kindness follow me all the days of my life; And I shall dwell in the house of the Lord for years to come.” Psalms 23:6

Advent is a spiritual Spring time. It is the Lord's preferred time for small miracles. The crowd following Jesus in the gospel was hungry, spiritually and physically. Like them, we should be looking and praying for a God who is with us, to provide for all our needs, and be able to truly accept that.

Our lives are stressful, and we become tired; the mind eventually affects the body. We spend sleepless nights, experience aches and pains, sadness and tears. Advent is a time for anticipation: the Lord will always be there for us, but like the crowd, we feel vulnerable. Is Jesus really there? The crowd had spent three days with him. The apostles believed they would never find enough food. Their problems were multiplying, like ours. When we can’t find answers, we finally look for Divine guidance, seeking the goodness and kindness that are promised to all.

Anticipation requires discipline. We can live a holy life only with discipline. But if we pray and remain strong with Our Lord, help is found. We too “will live in the house of the Lord all the days of our life” because we will never run away, never venture far, never doubt that He isn’t there with us. It is the moment of grace. Discipline requires walking in the valley of death and having no fear, taking courage in times of trial, and waiting for spring, when the Lord arrives at an unexpected hour and finds us vigilant and prepared.

Lord Jesus, You supplied the needs of the crowd with bread from heaven. Please supply our needs both physically and spiritually so we can learn to trust and walk with you. Teach us to turn to You in times of stress and know that You are always there.

~ Diane 7

December 5, 2013Thursday of the First Week of Advent

Isaiah 26:1-6; Psalms 118:1, 8-9,19-21, 25-27a; Matthew 7:21, 24-27

“Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the Kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven.” MT 7:21“… And everyone who listens to these words of mine but does not act on them will be like a fool who built his house on sand.” Matthew 7:24-27

This reading makes me think, “Don’t just talk the talk, you also have to walk the walk.” Jesus very specifically tells His disciples that only those who do the will of the Father will enter the kingdom of heaven. He then illustrates His admonition through His parable about the wise and the foolish builders.

To live as a Christian, a disciple of Jesus, means to live out Jesus’ teachings through our actions. If we are like the wise builder and choose to base our lives and actions in Christ as our foundation, Christ will strengthen and guide us through all of life’s difficulties and trials. But, if we are like the foolish builder and choose a weak foundation without Christ, our foundation will not stand through whatever life brings.

Lord, help me to choose to be a wise builder of my faith with Christ as my rock, my foundation. Strengthen and guide me to put Jesus’ teachings into practice and to live out my faith through my actions.

~ Kelly

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December 6, 2013Friday of the First Week of Advent

Isaiah 29:17-24, Psalms 27:1, 4, 13-14; Matthew 9:27-31

"’Do you believe that I can do this?’ ‘Yes, Lord,’ they said to him...’Let it be done for you according to your faith.’” Matthew 9: 28-29

What an encouraging passage this is! Prayer is so powerful! When we approach Jesus like the two blind men did, in humility and brokenness, and acknowledge our need for Him, there is nothing He won't do for us.

Answered prayers are not merely good luck or happy consequences. They are the result of faith and patient waiting for Jesus to do for us what is

best for us.

Dear Jesus, please help me to be patient and wait with faith in you.

~ Terrie

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December 7, 2013Saturday of the First Week of Advent

Feast of St. Ambrose, Bishop and Doctor of the ChurchIsaiah 30:19-21, 23-26; Psalms 147:1-6; Matthew 9:35-10:1, 5-8

“No longer will your Teacher hide himself, but with your own eyes you shall see your Teacher.” Isaiah 30: 24“Jesus sent out these Twelve after instructing them thus,‘Go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.’” Matthew 9:35

And Israel waits, and waits.

I crumble when I think of my own impatience, when I cannot find the solution to a question or reach the person who can answer me. I am ashamed that I am frustrated when waiting for a book, or an answer to an email. Waiting for Israel included exile, punishment and slavery. Waiting for the teacher, the Messiah included following His laws while they waited.

In the Gospel this day, Jesus walks among us, our Teacher is here, He feels pity for us, He sees how lost we are. He is touchable, visible, and His voice and words are hearable. The waiting is over. He teaches the apostle and shares the good news, that the kingdom of God is coming.

Our church is the body of Christ, our teacher is within us as members of the church, we have been taught to follow the way of Christ. Now is the time to share what we know, and what we have been given. Today we remember St. Ambrose, a great teacher whose wisdom inspired St. Augustine, and still inspires us today.

Bind up my wounds of the shame I feel when I do not follow in the way of Christ. Forgive my impatience. Help me to give thanks for hearing about the Kingdom of God as a child and growing up in the church. Let me grow old sharing all I have been given.

~ Anne

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December 8, 2013The Second Sunday of Advent

Isaiah 11:1-10; Psalms 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17; Romans 15:4-9; Matthew 3:1-12

“…May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to think in harmony with one another, in keeping with Christ Jesus, that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 15:4-9

How blessed we are that God loves us and gives us hope. Through the revelation found in Scripture, we learn about God’s love and His plan for us. In life, it is easy to lose sight of the reality of God’s love. When we encounter trial and hardship, it is easy to focus on the negative. We forget what is ultimately important: God. God is there for us. Jesus

understands our burdens and sorrows and promises to share the load. We, as Christians, have faith that God wants us to be happy and fulfilled.

We trust that God’s plan for each of us will lead to that happiness and fulfillment, our salvation. Until we come home to God, God provides for us on Earth.

Jesus came not to be served, but to serve. We are called to do the same, as a faith community. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, the Christian community makes God present here on earth now. When we live our lives as Christ lived, we provide the love and encouragement that others need so that they may endure and not despair. We are called to live out our love and gratitude to God by ministering to each other. God asks us to serve others in joy. We glorify God with our lives when we answer that call. When Christians live in Christian charity, loving and serving one another, the Glory of God is made manifest here on earth.

Loving God, may our words and lives praise and glorify you as we follow your call to holiness. May we always focus on our joy: the hope of spending eternity with You.

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~ KalleyDecember 9, 2013

Monday of the Second Week of AdventSolemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary

Genesis 3:9-15, 20; Psalms 98:1-4; Ephesians 1:3-6, 11-12; Luke 1:26-38

“Brothers and sisters: Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavens, as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world.” Ephesians 1:3-6

I am in awe that we are so blessed in Christ. No restrictions! He chose us with all our limitations. We all are loved ones with Christ, brothers and sisters.

Lord, may I truly understand what I am capable of with Christ as my brother. Unlock my lethargy, make me more aware of the love all around me. May I love more, as my God, without so many restrictions.

~ Domenic

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December 10, 2013Tuesday of the Second Week of Advent

Isaiah 40:1-11; Psalms 96:1-3, 10-13; Matthew 18:12-14

“If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, willhe not leave the ninety-nine in the hills and go in search of the stray?... In just the same way, it is not the will of your heavenly Father that one of these little ones be lost.” MT 18:12-13

The notion that a parent would do anything humanly possible to find one of his children who is missing, is one we can relate to. You have only to see how families who are dealing with a terminally sick child – every parent’s nightmare -- somehow cope with it. Their every-day lives come to a virtual halt, and all their energies and resources turn to their first priority, that of getting the sick child well again, even when the odds are against them. The parents set aside their own needs and those of their other children and family members, to focus on the one who needs help. So, too, does the shepherd search the hills for the one sheep that is missing from the flock, and rejoices greatly when it is found.

The parable of the lost sheep is intended to help us grasp the sacred importance of each person. In the eyes of God, each of us is of equal value; why else would He have purposed to have His son die on the cross for us? What more does He have to do to prove that He cares for and wants to nurture each of us individually, for who we are, each of us uniquely ourselves? This reading reminds us that as disciples, each of us is God’s child. And as a child, we are completely dependent on God, and must trust in Him unconditionally, as a child does a parent.

Dear Lord, in a society where being independent is a mark of strength, help me learn to be dependent on you, and to trust in you unconditionally. With your guidance, all is possible.

~ Nancy

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December 11, 2013Wednesday of the Second Week of Advent

Isaiah 40:25-31; Psalms 103:1-4, 8, 10; Matthew 11:28-30

“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

God is our Creator of the ends of the earth.He gives us power, increases our strength.We should embrace Christ’s teaching and His message;We should wait for the Lord.We should thank God for His goodness.If we join ourselves with Christ everything is easier.No matter how hard our lives are or how many burdens we have, God asks us to come to Him. He will help us.We should take time to pray and get to know Him.He loves us.

Dear Lord, I come to you with open armsA sinful person. Help me.I bring you my burdens: pain, guilt, sorrow, and stress. Heal me.Renew my strength so I can soar like the eagles; so I can run and not be wearyThank you for loving me and show me how to love and care for others.

~ Richard

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December 12, 2013Thursday of the Second Week of Advent

Feast of Our Lady of GuadalupeZechariah 2:14-17 or Revelation 11: 19a, 12:1-6a, 10 a & b;

Judith 13:18b-e, 19; Luke 1:26-38 or Luke 1: 39-47

“When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leapt in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice, ‘Most Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.’” Luke 1:41-42

Can you imagine how joyous Elizabeth became when she felt the infant first move in her womb? Elizabeth, who had thought she was barren, is filled with life, and recognizes that Mary is

truly the mother of our Savior.

The power of God is truly manifest in this reading, and the blessing brought by Mary demonstrates that nothing will be impossible for God.

Blessed Mother, please help me to be humble, kind and patient and to see Jesus, your son, in all who I meet.

~ Susan

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December 13, 2013Friday of the Second Week of Advent

Memorial of St. Lucy, Virgin and MartyrIsaiah 48:17-19; Psalms 1:1-4, 6; Matthew 11:16-19

“He is like a tree planted near streams of water, that yields its fruit in season; its leaves never wither; whatever he does prospers.” Psalms 1:3-4

Lord, how often do I feel alone on this life journey? Decisions, plans, commitments, judgments and responsibilities are facing us and You have promised to help. “Those who follow the law will have the light of life.” You promised to “teach me what is for my good and lead me on the (right) way I should go.” What a pledge of help and great grace is before us. I believe You are saying You will be with me if I follow Your Word. Help me to trust Your Word.

But, trusting Your word is hard. It’s often hard to see You and know You are near. There are many distractions. The uncertainty can be daunting, confusing, and sometimes paralyzing—a real test of faith.

Lord, help me to be just and listen, hear and be faithful to Your Word. To “be like a tree planted near running water, that yields its fruit in due season, whose leaves never fade, and whatever we do, prospers.” Help us to come closer to You in all that we do.

~ Bob

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December 14, 2013Saturday of the Second Week of Advent

Memorial of St. John of the Cross, Priest and Doctor of the Church

Sirach 48:1-4, 9-11; Psalms 80:2ac, 3b, 15, 16, 18-19; Matthew 17:9-13

“Then we will no more withdraw from you; give us new life, and we will call upon your name. Lord, make us turn to you; let us see your face and we shall be saved.” Psalms 80:18-19

God is the giver of all help. Yet when we are overwhelmed, hurt, and anxious, we often look to ourselves, or worse to things, for the answers. Some turn to despair when the world has little to offer in times of crisis. But we have a great high priest. We have Jesus, and when we turn to Him, He can give us peace in the midst of the storms of life.

If we can remember that God is with us, that He knows about what we are suffering, that He truly cares about what we are going through, and that He is able, more than able, to assist us and resolve the problem, or see us through the loss--then we can rest assured that God will see us through it all. We can come to Him and say, “Abba Father, I need your help.” 

Like the good Father, He looks down from heaven, sees what protection we need and takes us in His arms and shields us.

May we feel His presence and comfort as we offer Him praise and thanksgiving in the midst of our dark night.

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~ Michelle December 15, 2013

The Third Sunday of AdventIsaiah 35:1-6a, 10; Psalms 146:6-10; James 5:7-10;

Matthew 11:2-11

“Say to the fearful of heart: Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God, he comes with vindication; With divine recompense he comes to save you.” Isaiah 35:4

Using vivid natural images, today's scripture readings anticipate the Lord's coming. Like the blooming of abundant flowers and the emergence of the earth's precious fruit, this will be a time of renewal and restoration. Our spiritual anticipation and restoration are celebrated in the seasons of the church year. Those qualities, too, are mirrored in the seasons on earth. We celebrate Advent, a season of anticipation, during winter's dormancy yet we celebrate its conclusion, Christmas, during the depths of winter. We know, however, that at Christmas, our anticipation does not end but only begins.

Our long-awaited renewal and restoration occurs through the resurrection which we celebrate in the spring. Like the spring, the readings tell us that the Lord's coming will be a time of bloom and a time of joy and gladness. At that time we are renewed.

Lord, you order your creation and our salvation through seasons of anticipation and

renewal.

We pray that this Advent is a time of spiritual renewal and that, through the resurrection, we may be crowned with everlasting joy.

~ Matthew 19

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December 16, 2013Monday of the Third Week in Advent

Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17a; Psalms 25:4-9; Matthew 21:23-27

“Your ways, O Lord, make known to me.” Psalms 25:4

Today’s first reading is an oracle from Balaam and the Gospel has the chief priests and the elders challenging Jesus’ authority. Since I am thinking of Advent as a time of preparation, I’m not captured by either reading. The Psalm, on the other hand, speaks to me. Psalm 25 is “a prayer for guidance and help,” according to its footnote.

Our passage today reminds us that God has compassion and kindness, and guides the humble to justice. My plea, in response, is that God would show me how to be like Him. It is nine days until Christmas, an amount of time typical of the novena prayer. I looked for a prayer that might work, and found the one below. I think it might help me increase my awareness of the real meaning of Christmas and help me prepare myself spiritually for His coming. What do you think?

Hail and blessed be the hour and momentin which the Son of God was bornof the most pure Virgin Mary,

at midnight, in Bethlehem, in the piercing cold.

In that hour grant, I beseech Thee, O my God,to hear my prayer and grant my desires,[here mention your request]through the merits of Our Savior Jesus Christ,and of His Blessed Mother. Amen.

~ Beverly

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December 17, 2013Tuesday of the Third Week in Advent

Genesis 49:2, 8-10; Psalms 72:1-4ab, 7-8, 17; Matthew 1:1-17

“May the tribes of the earth give blessings with his name; may all the nations regard him as favored.” Psalms 72:17

This reading portrays Jacob on his deathbed and speaking to his sons delivering a message or prophecy to them and also to the twelve tribes of Israel that bore their names. He prophesized that Judah, who is the fourth born son, will have the respect and admiration of all his brothers. Even though he had three older brothers he was the one in charge, and will ultimately dominate all of them. Judah will be the one who will bring the promises of Abraham and Jacob to fruition. He is referred to as a “lion cub” as a symbol of strength and courage. It is through the tribe of Judah that his descendent David will arise and be an ancestor to the Messiah. Jesus himself was called the Lion of Judah.

The scepter refers to the power and it will never depart from him or more accurately, the tribe bearing his name, until the coming of the Messiah. Ultimately the power, symbolized by the scepter, belongs to Jesus Christ.

I believe what God is revealing to us through these passages is the fact that we are all capable of great things. Regardless of our lot in life or place in the pecking order, we can succeed and rise above it. Knowing from where and whom we came will help us face obstacles, whether real, perceived or just placed in front of us by society. Jesus came to us in human form and linked himself with his own people, to show us the way and lead us by example.

If our triumphs or successes bring glory to God then we will be deserving of the respect and admiration of others. Because after all, He is the one who ultimately has all of the power, isn’t He…

~ Paul

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Wednesday, December 18, 2013Wednesday of the Third Week of Advent

Jeremiah 23:5-8, Psalms 72:1-2, 12-13, 18-19; Matthew 1:18-25

“All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: ‘Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel”, which means “God is with us.’” Matthew 1:22-23

Christmas season is my favorite time of year. The air is clear and crisp, the landscape wears a sparkling white sheet of snow, and everyone seems a little bit happier. Along with these qualities there is a sense of anticipation, the anticipation of the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Take a quick moment to imagine you are in the stable at the first Christmas, to be kneeling right next to our Lord basking in the radiance of His hope and love.

Yet you can stop imagining, for as today’s readings state, this is our present reality. The name Emanuel demonstrates to us that Jesus is with us “in the here and now” and walks beside us all the days of our lives. It is in the Eucharist, through reception and adoration, by which we can come to truly know Jesus as “Emmanuel.”

Dear Jesus, open my eyes that I may see You in all things, in all places, and in all times.

~ Billy

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December 19, 2013Thursday of the Third Week of Advent

Judges 13: 2-7, 24-25a; Psalms 71: 3-6, 6-17; Luke 1:5-25

“It is he who will begin to save Israel from the power of the Philistines.” Judges 13:5

Zechariah was a holy man. A man of God. He was chosen by lot to enter the sanctuary of the Lord and serve Him by burning

incense. While he was doing his job, an angel of the Lord appeared to him and Zechariah was rightly “troubled” as any of us would most certainly be. I think “petrified” would be more my feeling!

Well, the angel then reassured Zechariah that he shouldn't be afraid. The angel also told Zechariah that his prayers for himself and his

wife had not only been heard, but were being answered. Their desire for a child was to be fulfilled! Their infertility and disgrace were to be taken away! One would think that Zechariah would have been filled with joy and come out of the sanctuary praising the Lord. Not so. Zechariah's first reaction was to question God's will by asking how this could possibly be because “I am an old man and my wife is advanced in years.” Old Zechariah was then struck dumb for not believing the angel's words. The Lord remained faithful despite Zechariah's doubt and Elizabeth conceived a son.

How often am I troubled as Zechariah by what I see or fail to see when the Lord reveals himself to me? How often does fear come upon me about things I cannot understand or control? Do I, like Zechariah, question the Lord's answers to my prayers? Shouldn't I realize that nothing is too great for the Lord to work out in my life...according to HIS will for me and not MY will for myself?

Lord, thank you for hearing my prayers. Please help me to believe your words that I do not need to fear. Help me to accept your will for me.

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~ Maureen

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Friday, December 20, 2013Friday of the Third Week of Advent

Isaiah 7:10-14; Psalms 24:1-6; Luke 1:26-38

“…for nothing will be impossible for God.” Luke 1:37

What hope Mary must have had felt when she heard these words from the angel, Gabriel in reference to her elderly relative, Elizabeth who had conceived after being barren her entire marriage. It was then that Mary realized God had the plan and she just needed to surrender and humbly follow.

Mary herself had just been told by Gabriel that she would conceive and bear a son who would be great and called the Son of the Most High. For a moment, Mary questioned how this would happen, not because she doubted that these words would be fulfilled, but because she knew she was still a virgin. The angel then explained how the Holy Spirit would make this happen.

As I reflect upon this passage, I realize that it is not wrong to ask God questions, but the key is to focus on the fact that God is all-knowing, all-powerful and in control. He first called us so He could work through us to accomplish His plan for His Kingdom, and He does not owe us any explanation.

Whether we fully understand God’s plan does not matter. We just need to remember that God has the plan and only He can do the impossible, but only when it will accomplish His purposes.

Heavenly Father, grant me the courage to trust you in all situations, even if there seems to be no possible solution.

~ Sheilah

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December 21, 2013Saturday of the Third Week of Advent

Song of Songs 2:8-14 or Zephaniah 3:14-18a;Psalms 33:2-3, 11-12, 20-21; Luke 1:39-45

“Fear not, O Zion, be not discouraged! The LORD, your God, is in your midst, a mighty savior; He will rejoice over you with gladness, and renew you in his love.” Zephaniah 3:17-17

These readings burst with joy and exaltation, which is appropriate for our Christmas season. The Gospel directly announces Jesus’ coming. News of Mary’s pregnancy with Jesus fills Elizabeth with joy, causing her own baby to leap in her womb. The Zephaniah verse instructs us to be happy for the love and protection that our Lord provides.

Of course, we should hold these glad feelings continuously and not just during the Christmas season, but, being human, we need reminders like those that these readings and our Christmas celebrations provide.

Lord, let me be ever mindful of the blessings you have bestowed on me. Let me exalt with all my heart for the wondrous gifts I enjoy.

~ Ken

December 22, 201327

The Fourth Sunday of AdventIsaiah 7:10-14; Psalms 24: 1-6;

Romans 1:1-7; Matthew 1:18-24

“Ask for a sign from the Lord, your God; Let it be deep as the netherworld, or high as the sky!” Isaiah 7:11

In today’s first reading, the Lord tells Ahaz to ask for a sign from the Lord, but Ahaz rebuffs the Lord, saying “I will not ask! I will not tempt the Lord.” In response, Isaiah tells Ahaz “the Lord himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel.”

God’s message to Ahaz is an acknowledgement that our faith needs continual nourishment; in the midst of our challenges and daily struggles, we need signs of God’s presence. We need proof that our faith is not in vain. And we should engage with God on this topic, asking not just for modest signs, but ones that are as “deep as the netherworld or high as the sky.” I can’t help but wonder whether I am able to discern the signs that God puts in front of me every day. But I am comforted by this passage. It’s as if God is saying, “I understand, it’s not easy. Pray boldly and with urgency. I want to show you I’m here!”

This time of year, there is no shortage of signs that Christmas is near. But I pray that the Lord is born in us every day so that we become signs of God’s loving presence in the world. I pray that we can deliver the gift of the newborn God to those who are sick and suffering; to those who have no hope or are alone, and to those who have lost faith. How spectacular that we could be signs for others! And may we feel the urgency to start today.

Lord, please help me discern the signs of your presence in my life. Be born in me today and every day so that I can become a sign to others of your great presence in the world.

~ Jim

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December 23, 2013The Fourth Monday of Advent

Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24; Psalms 25:4-5ab, 8-10, 14; Luke 1:57-66

“Make known to me your ways, LORD; Guide me by your fidelity and teach me, for you are God my savior, for you I wait all the day long.” Psalms 25:4

Advent presents us with a sort of miniature look at salvation history, which we can see in today’s readings. God prepared a group of people, gradually, over time, to be ready for His incarnation among human kind. He sent prophets such as Elijah, and much later John the Baptist, to “turn hearts” and “refine them like gold or silver.”

For this month-long journey of Advent, we are invited to go through this process ourselves to make ready for the Lord. We need do this repeatedly because it’s easy to forget about Jesus with all of the distractions of modern life (ironically, the consumer frenzy of the Christmas season has turned into one of the biggest distractions of all). So we get this timely reminder two days before the big event – for retailers, the biggest event of the year, and for human kind, the biggest event of all time.

Dear God, please help me to turn my heart to you this Christmas season. Help me to tune out everything that distracts me from you. I ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

~ Chris

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December 24/25, 2013Christmas Eve Vigil Mass

Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16;

Psalms 89: 2-5, 27, 29; Luke 1:67-79

“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways.” Luke 1:76

Epiphany means manifestation. Christmas Eve is the first, the second is to shepherds, and the third is presentation at the temple and on and on it goes to the present, as Jesus manifests Himself to anyone with eyes to see and ears to hear. The first manifestation of the child is at Bethlehem as the gift of the Father to a waiting world. Who are those waiting? They were the people of good will, holy people who believed that God had not abandoned them and would keep his promises to send a savior. Shepherds, perhaps temple shepherds, who were keeping their flocks for Passover sacrifice among which the Lamb of God was born, and Magi, people not of the chosen ones but destined to show the world that this gift from the Father was a gift for all peoples.

This God made man, this Emmanuel, is to be ever present to His people. How does He manifest Himself to us today? I have talked with many people who claim that God presented Himself to them in some outward sign—a vertical presentation. It happened to Paul on the way to persecute the followers of The Way. Most people discover the presence of God in horizontal ways. It is through the events of the every day and through other people that God is made evident. All this is possible, or why would we continue to pray that we might see and that we might hear lest we miss His coming?

Lord, bless your church. Make us holy and able to see signs of the kingdom in all who are seeking you. May the simple beauty of Jesus’s birth summon us always to love what is most deeply human, and to see your Word made flesh reflected in those whose lives we touch. Amen.

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~ Fr. Arnold

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Daily Readings for Advent

Date 1st

ReadingPsalms 2nd Reading Gospel

Dec. 1 Is 2:1-5 Ps 122:1-9

Ro 13:11-14

Mt 24: 37-44

Dec. 2 Is 4:2-6 Ps 122 Mt 8:5-11

Dec. 3 Is 11: 1-10

Ps 72:1-2, 7-8; 12-13, 17

Lk 10:21-24

Dec. 4 Is 25:6-10a

Ps 23:1-6 Mt 15:29-37

Dec. 5 Is 26:1-6 Ps 118:1, 8-9, 19-21, 25-27a

Mt 7:21, 24-27

Dec. 6 Is 29:17-24

Ps 27:1-4, 13-14

Mt 9:27-31

Dec. 7 Is 30: 19-21

Ps 147:1-6 Mt 9:35

Dec. 8 Is 11:1-10

Ps 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17

Ro 15:4-9 Mt 3:1-12

Dec. 9 Gen 3:9-15, 20

Ps 98:1-4 Eph 1:3-6, 11-12

Lk 1:26-38

Dec. 10 Is 40:1-11

Ps 96:1-3, 10-13

Mt 18:12-13

Dec. 11 Is 40: 25-31

Ps 103:1-4, 8, 10

Mt 11: 28-30

Dec. 12 Zec 2: 14-17 orRev 11: 19a, 12: 1-6a, 10a&b

Jdt 13: 18b-e, 19

Lk 1:26-38 or Lk 1:39-47

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….Continued from previous page

Date 1st Reading Psalms 2nd

ReadingGospel

Dec. 13 Is 48:17-19 Ps 1:1-4, 6 Mt 11: 16-19

Dec. 14 Sir 48:1-4, 9-11

Ps 80:2ac, 3b, 15, 16, 18-19

Mt 17:9a, 10-13

Dec. 15 Is 35:1-6a, 10

Ps 146:6-10

Jas 5:7-10 Mt 11:2-11

Dec. 16 Nm 24: 2-7, 15-17a

Ps 25:4-9 Mt 21: 23-27

Dec. 17 Gen 49:2, 8-10

Ps 72:1-4ab, 7-8, 17

Mt 1:1-17

Dec. 18 Jer 23:5-8 Ps 72:1-2, 12-13, 18, 19

Mt 1: 18-25

Dec. 19 Jgs 13:2-7, 24-25a

Ps 71:3-6, 6-17

Lk 1:5-25

Dec. 20 Is 7:10-14 Ps 24:1-6 Lk 1: 26-38

Dec. 21 SG 2:8-14 or Zep 3:14-18a

Ps 33:2-3, 11-12, 20-21

Lk 1:39-45

Dec. 22 Is 7:10-14 Ps 24:1-6 Ro 1:1-7 Mt 1:18-24

Dec. 23 Mal 3:1-4, 23-24

Ps 25:4-5ab, 8-10, 14

Lk 1:57-66

Dec. 24 2Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16

Ps 89:2-5, 27, 29

Lk 1:67-79

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