Revised/reviewed November 29, 2000
E-mail this page to a friend...
Dear parishioners,
This Advent booklet [adaptation] is offered as an aid
to individuals, households and families to strengthen our preparation for the
coming of the Lord. We hope it will be used at the table and as a bedside
companion.
Habits of prayer that many of us grew up with have been discarded. We need new ways to assist prayer and faith sharing. A weekly prayer time for your household can work wonders in deepening the bonds of affection and faith. Come Lord Jesus!
—Fr. Gerry Creedon
Note: The Advent reflections for the Sunday readings match the Sunday lectionary for 2000; the daily readings correspond to the 2001 schedule. These reflections first appeared in 1997. Please continue to use them to grow closer to Jesus.
See Advent at St. Charles for more Advent reflections.
Grab your Bible, look at today's readings, and try a reflection, prayer, and suggestion for action.
| Fr. Gerry on Advent '97 | Booklet Background | Publication Team | CAFE's home |
| Date | First Reading | Gospel |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Sunday of Advent | Jeremiah 33:14-16 | Luke 21:25-28, 34-36 |
| Monday | Isaiah 2:1-5 | Matthew 8:5-11 |
| Tuesday | Isaiah 25:6-10 | Matthew 15:29-37 |
| Wednesday | Isaiah 11:1-10 | Luke 10:21-24 |
| Thursday | Isaiah 26:1-6 | Matthew 7:21,24-27 |
| Friday | Isaiah 29:17-24 | Matthew 9:27-31 |
| Saturday | Isaiah 30:19-21, 23-26 | Matthew 9:35, 10:1, 6-8 |
| Second Sunday of Advent | Baruch 5:1-9 | Luke 3:1-6 |
| Tuesday | Isaiah 40:1-11 | Matthew 18:12-14 |
| Wednesday | Isaiah 40:25-31 | Matthew 11:28-30 |
| Thursday | Isaiah 41:13-20 | Matthew 11:11-15 |
| Immaculate Conception | Genesis 3:9-19 | Luke 1:26-38 |
| Saturday | Siarch 48:1-4, 9-11 | Matthew 17:10-13 |
| Third Sunday of Advent | Zephaniah 3:14-18 | Luke 3:10-18 |
| Monday | Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17a | Matthew 21:23-27 |
| Tuesday | Zephaniah 3:1-2, 9-13 | Matthew 21:28-32 |
| Wednesday | Matthew 1:1-17 | Matthew 1:1-17 |
| Thursday | Jeremiah 23:5-8 | Matthew 1:18-24 |
| Friday | Judges 13:2-7, 24-25a | Luke 1:5-25 |
| Saturday | Isaiah 7:10-14 | Luke 1:26-38 |
| Fourth Sunday of Advent | Micah 5:2-5 | Luke 1:39-55 |
| December 25 Christmas | Isaiah 62:11-12 | Luke 2:15-20 |
| Feast of St. Stephen | Acts 6:8-10, 7:54-59 | Matthew 10:17-22 |
| December 27 Feast of St. John the Evangelist | I John 1:1-4 | John 20:2-8 |
| Holy Family Sunday | I Samuel 1:20-22, 24-28 | Luke 2:41-52 |
| Monday | I John 2:2-11 | Luke 2:22-35 |
| Tuesday | I John 2:12-17 | Luke 2:36-40 |
| Wednesday | I John 2:18-21 | John 1:1-18 |
| January 1 World Day O' Peace | Micah 4:1-4 | Matthew 5:38-48 |
| Friday | I John 2:22-28 | John 1:19-28 |
| Saturday | I John 2:29-3:6 | John 1:29-3 |
| Sunday Feast of the Epiphany | Isaiah 60:1-6 | Matthew 2:1-12 |
"There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on earth nations will be in dismay, perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves....then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory."(Luke 21:25)
This passage, foretelling the Second Coming, strikes an unsettling, inappropriate note at the onset of Advent. Yet, Jesus is the 'just shoot' referred to in Jeremiah, the fulfillment of God's promise to Israel and Judah. How different his Second Coming is from His humble birth in the manger; how hard it is to imagine safety and security in a world "perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves."
We are called on to derive strength from this powerful and violent demonstration of God's kept promise. I can't help but attribute such a frightened anticipation to Mary, Joseph, people who both received visitations from angels and held fast to their faith and sanity.
Lord, you came to live among us first as a helpless child. You will come again as the fulfillment of God's great promise for us. Help us to remember the strength of your promises as we exercise our faith daily in your name. Amen.
ACTION: Call to mind a time when God demonstrated His presence to you in a way that surprised you with its power.
"Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they be exercised any more to war."(Isaiah 2:4)
Violence seems to surround us, across borders of countries, states, cities, neighborhoods and in our homes. Violence is too often the quick and easy response to dealing with difficulties and confronting the unknown. It is used to prey on the weak, to falsely gain stature, to imitate others, to impose inequity. In the end, violence is a sham, for it diminishes us as humans whether as victim or an aggressor, reducing our potential for a full and rich life.
OLord, help us to recognize the value of each person and to foster kindness among us. Help us to seek justice. Guide us as we confront the unknown. Give us strength to shelter the weak and oppose the angry. Amen.
ACTION: Each day show kindness. Be gentle, but strong of faith and purpose.
"Let us rejoice and be glad that he has saved us!"(Isaiah 25:9)
In the first reading, Isaiah tells us that the Lord will provide for all our needs. When do I find the time to stop and reflect on all the blessings God has given me? I try to reflect during my commute to and from work, but when traffic is snarled, I find myself focusing more on the rudeness of other drivers, and less on the fact that with a little patience, I will arrive at work safely. I often dismiss the kindness of other drivers that give me room to 'merge' into their lane, and fail to extend that courtesy to others.
OLord, I praise you and thank you for all the blessings you have given me. Help me to recognize the kindness of others as a constant reminder of your love. Amen.
ACTION:Recognize God's blessings in you life.
"The spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him; a spirit of wisdom and of understanding; a spirit of counsel and of strength, a spirit of knowledge and of fear of the Lord."(Isaiah 11:2)
As I reflect on these readings, "a new branch will grow from a stump of a tree," I could not really see exactly how this would pertain to my everyday life. I asked the Holy Spirit to help me ponder these scriptures and realized this is God's way of telling me not to worry. You see, my boss has accepted a new position, which means we are going to have to adjust to another person. Fear has taken over us as to whom his replacement will be.
I reflected further on Isaiah's coming of a new "King of Peace" and WOW. The words seemed to speak to me directly "He shall come with wisdom and understanding, guidance and power." The same qualifications we would look for in a new person for my boss's position. As I pondered further and further into the first reading -- "Goodness and fairness will give him strength like a belt around his waist. The nations will come together." I realized we have nothing to worry about. My heart is light now. How many times have we heard "go to the scriptures" -- and believe it or not the scriptures are usually our last resort. Believing and praying to the Holy Spirit is one of the most powerful ways of our Lord answering us -- and so many times we fail to realize the power of the Holy Spirit in our life.
Holy Spirit, give me the wisdom, the strength, and the power to remember to turn to you when in need. Let me realize the way to life is prayer and faith in my Lord and Savior. In this busy world let me not forget my coworkers--and the people around me. Let us work together as one. Show me how to LOVE someone, even if I/we have differences. I thank you Holy Spirit for opening my eyes to see. Amen.
ACTION:Look for the Holy Spirit in your life daily, and remember He has powers that we cannot imagine.
"Trust in the Lord forever! For the Lord is an eternal rock."(Isaiah 26:4)
The themes of permanence and impermanence run through today's readings, with the recurring image of a rock. There is protection and peace behind the walls of a strong city, its rewards for having kept the faith. Yet faith is not enough; justice is required as well. In the gospels Jesus warns his followers that those who only listen to his word (with no action) receive no permanent benefit. How shall I put my faith into action this day? I do not want to be a lazy Christian, listening to the Mass, reading the scriptures, saying my rosary and telling myself I am living the faith. What action for a neighbor, family, or someone in need will I do today?
Lord, help me to recognize myself in Matthew's foolish man who built on sand instead of rock. Give me what I need to build my faith wisely. Transform my lethargy into Christian action. Amen.
ACTION:Be alert today for ways to practice your faith. Help a colleague who feels rushed by holiday preparations. Take a package to the post office for someone. Spend time with someone who would be alone. Cook a dinner at a shelter.
Poor and humble people will once again find the happiness which the Lord, the holy God of Israel, gives....(Isaiah 29:19)
Poor.....poor of health and spirit. None of us know why God permits the unhappiness, suffering and injustice to His people in this world. He alone knows his plan for each of us. He does however, promise that we will find peace and happiness in the future if we remain with Him and keep his holy teachings. Our sins and sufferings may be God's plan to save our souls. I think of my dear sister, who is awaiting a liver transplant, and wonder, why her? My sister, on the other hand, while aggressively pursuing the best medical treatment, has an aura of serenity because of her deep faith. She says that she has placed her life in the hands of God.
Help me to understand, Dear Father, that the difficult things can be the ones that help me most. I shall try to remember, Dear Lord, that You do not send trouble my way, but rather the strength to bear it. Amen.
ACTION:Let me look for signs of God's plan in each person whom I meet today, knowing each is a unique person, made in the image of God, with special talents, needs and shortcomings.
"The Lord will give you the bread you need and the water for which you thirst."(Isaiah 30:20)
This first reading speaks about how God will hear us and provide for us. How He will help us understand His Word. This also alludes to the coming of Jesus. In the second reading He is moved to pity by the people "abandoned like sheep without a shepherd" and He sends His apostles out to cure illnesses and drive out demons. It brings to mind my own life. I keep asking God for this and that, a better job, etc. What He seems to be doing is pointing me towards the things of Heaven and reminding me that all I need is Him, and that I need to put myself more in His hands and have more faith that He will give me the bread and water I need i.e. the Eucharist. Jesus is the way to eternal life.
Jesus, please help me to place myself more in your hands, and to accept what comes my way as God's will. Amen.
ACTION:Focus less on the things and desires of earth and focus on the kingdom of God; look at our lives and events in that context.
"For God will show all the earth your splendor: you will be named by God forever the peace of Justice, the glory of God's worship." (Bar 5:3)(Baruch 5:3)
God's promise to us is the peace of justice and the glory of God's worship. He invites us to live in the light of His glory. Therefore we need to be opened to this call of God's. When we do, the mountains and the valleys will be leveled in our life. Then we can put on the splendor of His glory by opening our hearts and trusting that all is well.
Dear Lord, break open our hearts and quiet our minds so that we can hear You speak and we can be present to Your promise. It is not fear but Your love where we find salvation. "The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy." (Ps 126:1) Amen.
ACTION:During this waiting time for Christmas, try taking five minutes whenever you can and sit comfortably with hands folded and eyes closed. Try to clear your mind of all thoughts. When they come, gently push them away being conscious of them yet clearing your mind. This exercise will get easier and you can then listen with your heart to God's voice and call...and begin to experience the splendor of th today's reading.
"For with God nothing will be impossible."(Luke 1:37)
Today we read about the miracle of the Immaculate Conception. What would it have been like for Mary to be approached by Gabriel? I can imagine Mary's fear, confusion and trepidation. This news must clearly change Mary's plans for her own life. Yet Mary's response is to place complete trust in God. Mary's implicit faith enables her to overcome her fear, and to open herself to the wonders and possibilities of God. Mary rejoices in carrying out the will of God.
For a few years, I walked in Elizabeth's shoes. Although I tried, I often lacked Mary's ability to have faith and trust in God. Nevertheless, God remained by my side. Each day as I look at my beautiful ten-month old son, I have a constant and living reminder of God's love. I know, now, and believe that with God, nothing is impossible.
It's often easy to walk with God when we think we know where we're headed. This advent, may we have the faith to follow, even when we may feel lost. God will show us the way.
Lord, I praise You for the miracle of the conception and birth of your Son, Jesus Christ, and for the goodness of Mary, our mother. I pray that your miracles in my life are ever present in my thoughts, so that I may remember to place my faith and trust in You. Like Mary, let me turn to You in times of trouble and praise You in times of joy! Amen.
ACTION:The Lord sent Gabriel to Mary. How is God reaching out to you? Reflect on God's communicative power through people or events in your life.
"Thus it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones perish."(Matthew 18:14)
There have been times when I wondered if God really cares about us, and now I know that He does. Five years ago I lost my job right after I bought my house. I was terrified. I started temping. There were times when no work was available. During that time God taught me patience and trust. I had to depend on Him. He knew I needed help and He always provided. We are important to Him. I was amazed at how He always provided money for my mortgage, plus many other blessings. The biggest miracle was when I got a permanent job that I like. It took five years, but it's worth it. God cares for that one sheep that wandered away from the flock, and He cares for us too.
Lord, thank you for being with me during the hardest time of my life. I am so grateful for all of the blessings that you have given to me. Amen.
ACTION:Look for the blessings every day that God gives even during rough times.
"...learn from me, for I am gentle and humble of hear."(Matthew 11:29)
It is the ultimate irony of our faith that the supreme, all-powerful God chose to be present in our world in the total humility of an impoverished birth, a life of self-sacrifice reaching out to others, and powerlessness in a death commanded by an ancient empire. By all human logic, this should have been the last that anyone would have ever heard of Jesus and the lesson of His Life. And yet....
In historical hindsight, we of the late twentieth century now realize that God, with infallible wisdom, foresaw that this model of perfect humility and charity was exactly what would be needed to capture and hold the imagination of the countless imitators of Jesus over the past 2,000 years, who did, indeed, learn from His example and answered God's call of salvation in Christ. Truly, the knowledge of God is, as Isaiah tells us, beyond all scrutiny. Praise Him!
Lord Jesus, we live in a world and a city that glorify ego, power, and self-advantage. As we wait for you this advent season, help us to learn from your life and words to have a purified heart, that we might greet your arrival Christmas morning with the same spirit of humility with which you came to visit us. Amen.
ACTION:What is one special thing that I can do this Advent season to reach out beyond my family and circle of friends to those in my community who need me?
"...I will help you, says the Lord; your redeemer is the Holy One of Israel." (Is 41:14) (Isaiah 41:14)
Today is the vigil of the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Mary helps us know and love her son. God promises us His help in the Isaiah verse, reminding us that our Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel. It is because Mary said "yes" to God the very first advent, that we have a savior...a Holy One of Israel.
I was raised Catholic, but it is only recently that I have begun to truly understand and appreciate Mary. I have just begun to trust her with my troubles, my hopes, my fears, my joys. I continue to discover how God's promise to help me can be fulfilled so completely by Jesus through Mary. I continue to be amazed at how she loves me and helps me see her son more clearly. At Guadalupe she told Juan Diego "Listen and understand, my dear little son. Do not be troubled or weighed down with grief. Do not fear any illness or vexation, anxiety or pain. Am I not here who am your Mother?..."
Merciful Father, thank you for promising to help me when I am in need and for fulfilling that promise by giving me Mary, a loving Mother, to turn to. Please continue to open my heart to her. Plant in me the desire to follow her perfect and simple example of discipleship. Amen.
ACTION:Find out more about the miracle of Guadalupe by reading, taling to a friend or doing an internet search. Also, in your own way, do or say something that might assist in someone's conversion to Jesus.
"Blest are you among women and blest is the fruit of your womb." (Luke 1:42)
The examples given to us by these wonderful women, Elizabeth and Mary, are something that every person has to follow: One is the harmony in which they live, as well as their faithfulness to the one and only God. I believe that if everyone follows the teaching of the Virgin Mary everybody will live in peace and in joy forever.
Help me to guard against bitterness and discouragement during all my life. Amen.
ACTION:Everybody should pray at home as a family.
"I assure you, though, that Elijah has already come, but they did not recognize him and they did as they pleased with him."(Matthew 17:12)
I have been thinking that sometimes we might have someone that really cares for us but we do not recognize that special caring of that person until they are gone, far-away or it's really too late. That's what happens with the majority of humanity, we all close our hearts and don't let any truth come in; and that's why we all need a little touch of the love of Christ in our lives, so we can still have faith and do good to all the people that are in need. Open your heart up and look at your surroundings, and you will see that this world really needs your love in order to change it. There are a lot of poor people, unemployed, hungry and what will we do to help them? Jesus is love and faith, open your heart to Him.
Thank you GOD for opening my heart a little and giving me the strength to understand that without faith in you, we wouldn't have peace in the world. Thank you GOD, too, because without your wish I wouldn't be able to write this little prayer Amen.
ACTION:Open your heart to the faith and love of Jesus Christ earlier, before it is too late.
"What then should we do?"(Luke 3:10)
In announcing the coming of Jesus, John the Baptist told the crowds what they had to do to reach salvation. One of the main points was sharing with your neighbor everything that you have, your talents, your gifts, your material goods. How often we forget to help others, to be kind to others.
Lord, grant us the gift of unselfishness, give us the willingness to share what you have given us with others, and guide us in the way towards salvation, by showing us "what we should do." We ask you this through Our Lord Jesus, your Son. Amen.
ACTION:Let us try to share something with someone everyday--perhaps a kind work, a deed, help your neighbor in some errand.
"I too will ask a question."(Matthew 21:24)
The second reading (Mt 21:23-27) talks about the chief priests and elders testing Jesus and questioning him about the source of his power when they had understood very well who Jesus was. Jesus answers with a question, as if to say: "I will give you a chance to accept that I am the Son of God."
Do I have the courage to testify that I am a Christian? Do I dare to express my opinion based on my beliefs even when I think others will disagree?
Lord Jesus, thank you for giving me another chance. Give me the courage to do your will at all times and to not be afraid to proclaim that you are Lord. Amen.
ACTION:Look for the occasion when Jesus gives you a chance to witness by your actions or your words.
This son said in reply, "No, I will not; but afterward he regretted it and went."(Matthew 21:30)
The Lord invites us every day to serve him. I think that when we act like one of the sons who first says "No" but then we think better and repent, that is when we actually accept God's love which is the only thing that sustains us. Accepting the will of God, even if at first we rebel and say "no", makes us strong and in the end, happy.
Lord, help us to accept the invitation that you make to us every day; to love and serve you always. Amen.
ACTION:Look for ways in which you respond with a "Yes" the first time.
"Abraham became the father of Isaac..."(Matthew 1:2)
In the first reading, IsaThe genealogy of Jesus is important in telling how Jesus was raised. Mothers and fathers are very important to children. They teach us how to be good, loving and patient people. They teach us how to be parents too.
It's interesting that the word became is used for Abraham. Parents are also people who are learning. They learned from their parents how to be good caring people. Now they teach us by their example.
Abraham loved God so much that he was willing to give his son. God, the father gives us his son Jesus to teach us about total love. Jesus cares about who we are, not how we look or what we do.
Dear God, Thank you for my parents and grandparents and their grandparents. Thank you for these people who tried to do their best for children. Bless the children who do not have parents who make them do the right thing. Help them to know how to be peaceful. Amen.
ACTION:Today take a loving look at each person we meet remembering that they are a child of God.
"Behold, the Virgin shall be with Child and bear a son, and she shall name him Emmanuel," which means, "God is with us" (Mt 1:24)(Matthew 1:24)
"Emmanuel, God is with us," for me, is the most transforming aspect of our faith. A God who is ..the creator of the universe, the source of all things ...Who is perfect ...is with you; and with me. You and I are His Temple, because He is at the very core of our soul or spirit. "God is with us" ...because we all are bearers of His Goodness. Can there be something more hopeful than this thought?
While I was baptized and grew up Catholic in a predominantly Catholic community, I became truly aware of God's living presence in me and others, only 10 years ago. When this happened, I found myself seeking and yearning to know Him more. I realized that getting close to him does not happen overnight. It is a process, even a struggle at times. But oh, it turned me around. Experienceing God at a very personal level requires a lot of work and prayers. The rewards, however, are well worth it: Peace, true happiness and joy.
O Father, through Jesus, please help me to know you more. Give me the strength to do your will so that your Spirit may shine through me. Amen.
ACTION:To experience God today, spend a quiet time to meditate on the many blessings that came your way, and the thoughts or acts of kindness you have done for someone or others today.
But the angel said to him, "Zechariah, do not be afraid, your prayer has been heard.. "(Luke 1:13)
Both Manoah's wife and Elizabeth become pregnant miraculously through God's will. God has answered their prayer, and they are overjoyed. Like many of God's gifts to us, his gift to these women is a surprise. How wonderful to receive a gift when we least expect it. God knows me and loves me beyond my understanding. Why then do I sometimes feel frustrated by daily difficulties?
The angel says, "Do not be afraid," Why are we afraid? I think I am afraid to let go of my perception of being in control of my life, to abandon myself to God's love. What gifts will be given to me, and what will be my new responsibilities?
Dear Jesus, help me to look to you and follow you in my daily life. Help me to realize the potential of your gifts to me, so that I can be a vessel of your love in the world. Amen
ACTION:Discover a gift from God in you. Nurture i and use it to spread God's love.
"And coming to her, he said, "Hail, favored one! The Lord is with you." But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. (Luke 1:28)
God speaks to us many time during the day. I wondered while I pondered this line from scripture how open I am to God's word. Mary must have been surprised at the angel's greeting. Can I be surprised by God's will being done in my life? Do I believe that God's hand is at work in the good as well as the bad? What can I do to listen for the voice of God spoken through my fiancee, my workmates and the "angels" I meet in my day to day life?
Lord thank you for always being present in my life. Help me take the time to listen and to be more open to your word. Amen.
ACTION:Today set aside some quiet time for reflection and prayer.
"Blessed is she who believed...." (Luke 1:45)
What is it to believe? Webster first definition of this word is "to accept as true or real." Mary is the ultimate believer. Her "let it be done according to your will", teaches me about acceptance. I wrestle with most of what God puts before me. Shall I go to Boston to teach a course or should I stay here? I try to measure out all the ramification, with back-up plans for carpools, classes and food in the pantry. Mary didn't say to the angel I have to check my planner, or wait till.... Her response was immediate, "Yes!" Believing that she would be the mother of Jesus, she left to visit Elizabeth. What delight she must have felt to see that the secret the angel told her was true!
Jesus, your mother teaches me many things about saying "Yes" to you. Help me in these final days of waiting and preparing to believe again in impossible things being made real, Let me find delight that my savior would arrive as an infant and capture my heart completely. Amen.
ACTION: Today I will enjoy a few beautiful Christmas cookies and share with a friend or family member the memories of what Christmas traditions delighted me as a child.
"The hungry he has filled with good things; the rich he has sent away empty..." (Luke 1:53)
I feel that I am a very giving person. Sometimes however, I may devote lots of time energy, gifts etc...on those who appreciate it but are not in desperate need.
I remember once volunteering at a Children's Hospital and offering sick, sad children my love and attention. It was amazing how much they got out of so little. It reminded me to be aware who are "hungry."
Lord help me to remember those who are in need even when it is difficult. Help others like myself who have "riches" to share time, talent and treasure that we may build your Kingdom here, today. Amen.
ACTION:Seek out a person around you who may unexpectedly need you.
"For surely the hand of the Lord was with him."(Luke 1:66)
Just as the hand of the Lord is with John the Baptist as a child, so too is the hand of the Lord always with us. Elizabeth leaned on the Lord's hand when she needed strength to go against societal expectations to call her son "John." Zechariah accepted the outstretched hand of the Lord and was healed. We need to stop what we are doing sometimes and to realize that the Lord's hand is with us—if only we will look.
Lord help me see your guiding hands and
always be aware
of outstretched hands forgiving though I've done not what I
should,
of high-fives that you send my way when I've done something good,
of
upright hands that warn of harm and tell me to beware.
Your gentle touch
upon my soul it lets me know you're there.
ACTION:Be the hand of the Lord today: give someone a pat on the back, citing a specific example that highlights a quality you admire in that person.
"All this is the work of the kindness of our God; He, the Dayspring, shall visit us in his mercy...to guide our feet into the way of peace." (Luke 1:78)
Beloved, now is the acceptable time spoken of by the Spirit, the day of salvation, peace and reconciliation. Each year, as the Church recalls this mystery, she urges us to renew the memory of the great love God has shown us. This holy season teaches us that Christ's coming was not only for the benefit of his contemporaries; his power has still to be communicated to us all. We shall see his power if, through holy faith and the sacraments, we willingly accept the grace Christ earned for us, and live by the grace and in obedience to Christ.
The Church asks us to understand that Christ, who came once in the flesh, is prepared to come again. When we remove all obstacles to his presence he will come, at any hour and moment, to dwell spiritually in our hearts, bringing with him the riches of his grace.
God of power and mercy
open our hearts in welcome.
remove the things that hinder us
from receiving Christ with joy. Amen.
ACTION:Read the Canticle of Zechariah and write your own hymn to the Lord for His graces to you.
December 25
Christmas, Christ's Birthday
"But Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart."(Luke 2:19)
It was not quite how everyone supposed it would be, Isaiah wrote about "The Holy People...The redeemed of the Lord", yet the first of those prophesied turned out to be an impulsive lot of smelly shepherds. Mary knew that her baby was the Anointed One, and she knew the scriptures and prophecies very well, yet she was willing to suspend what she knew. She could risk uncertainty in her intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit; she could be open to what did not seem to be as it was supposed to be. She and Joseph graciously welcomed the shepherds and their stories of angels into their temporary shelter for the homeless, "...because there was no place for them in the inn."
Be with me, Lord, during those times when nothing seems to be working out the way I supposed it would. Help me to follow Mary's lead in learning how to ponder in my heart the wondrous works you are doing in ways I least expect. Amen.
ACTION:Try to stop and ponder before jumping to conclusions or trying to fix things the way they're 'supposed' to be.
"It will not be you who speak but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you." (Matthew 10:20)
Ah, it is the feast of St. Stephen. It's only the day after Christmas and the Church already reminds us that all is not baby sweetness in the Christian life. The disciple Stephen is hated for his challenging words and gets stoned to death. Saul (who later had a conversion and became Paul) stood by to cheer the execution. I wonder if he was affected by the truth spoken by Stephen? The line from Matthew reminds me of the promise that is ours when we live in union with Christ. It is then that we speak truth. Of course, that truth can have results that hurt. Such is the life of a disciple. I think this is very "grown-up" stuff, and although I sometimes feel more a child, I'm convinced by the scriptures and experience that this challenging way is the way to travel.
OLord, give us the boldness of your voice in all of our dealings, especially those which call for courage. Let us remember that your gentle baby life holds within it a truth that grows steady and strong. Amen.
ACTION:Live through the small presecutions and upsets that come your way today. Bear it bravely. Speak only truth.
Feast of St. John the Evangelist
"What we have seen and heard, we proclaim in turn to you so that you may share life with us." (John 1:3)
In the first letter of John, as well as in his Gospel, we know and believe that we are called to return to Jesus Christ as the true center and source of the message that brings us into the new millennium. To understand the mystery and to share in His discipleship signifies the value of His existence in every human person.
Jesus invites us to share in His friendship, that He be our confidant, our brother, the one who forgives us, helps us to conquer evil. He is the way, the truth and the life. Yes, Like John, He asks us to see and believe.
Lord Jesus, how close John was to you. You shared so many heavenly secrets with him. Let me find you always at my side to be guided by your wisdom so that you may use me as your instrument that others may see and believe that you are the Lord of heaven and earth. Amen.
ACTION:Pray for the grace to be so fied with the love for Jesus that others may find Him in you.
"After three days they found him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers listening to them and asking them questions." (Luke 2:46)
In his divine nature Jesus was aware of his unique relationship with God. Nevertheless, in his human nature Jesus had to learn, grow and develop emotionally and cognitively. Like any boy of twelve, he had to discover his unique human identity through the normal process of separation from his human parents. As a mother, I am reminded of my joys, anxieties and frustrations during my children's adolescence. One of the most difficult challenges for me was to respond to their need to separate in respectful ways rather than react with criticism. I interpreted their need for autonomy as a personal rejection. Feeling unappreciated, I resorted to giving unsolicited, but well-intentioned homilies. Fortunately, I discovered new ways to respond to their needs without insisting on control. I learned to listen first and receive permission before sharing my thoughts. My joy has been their response to my change; they now ask for my thoughts on their concerns.
Dear Lord, our world desperately needs family relationships restored. You have chosen us to lives as members of one spiritual family. The living Body of Christ. Open the eyes of our hearts to your vision for our relationships so that we may become living bread to one another through mutual respect and loving service. Amen.
ACTION:Identify a preson in your family who is critical of you. Write a brief reflection on your feelings in response to their criticism. With this awareness, pray for the desire to end the criticism in our spiritual families by asking for the grace of self-control in your choice of words and behavior toward self and others.
The way we can be sure of our knowledge of him is to keep his commandments. (I John 2:2)
I can't remember the last time that I read the ten commandments. They were drilled into me as a child, especially before First Friday confession. I probably still remember most of them now, but what do the commandments mean to me now, as an adult?
They should no longer be just a set of rules, but also a set of guidelines for a God-centered life. To love God with all my hear, soul, mind and strength and to love my neighbor as myself is an awesome challenge. If I really lived this challenge, I would be a totally different person. To love God so totally would mean acknowledging his presence in every second of every day, and spending time in prayer everyday. To truly love my neighbor would mean changing my treatment of every human being I come in contact with each day of my life.
Dear Lord, may your ten commandments be a challenge to me. Help me to change and deepen my relationship with you. Help me to love my family, friends, coworkers and those forgotten by society. Amen.
ACTION: Read the ten commandments and thnk about them. The new Catechism of the Catholic Church has a thought provoking explanation.
"Do not love the world or the things of the world....the world and its enticement are passing away." (I John 2:15-17)
As I come to the end of another Christmas season, it occurs to me that the gifts and the glitter, alas, will probably be forgotten in a couple of months - if not a couple of weeks! But the sentiment behind the gifts and the joy inside those celebrations, those will last forever. The gifts and the glitter are only a meager sign of the genuine LOVE between my family, my friends, and me. And to the extent that LOVE is sharing in the Divine, it has an essence that transcends this world and is without boundary. Beware of any attachment to "things"! The virtue of poverty has nothing to do with money or conveniences, but rather with the power that is available to me by avoiding attachment to what is transitory, and by shunning an inflated sense of security place on material possessions. Stability and security will be found only in Christ's love. With, in and through the gifts and glitter!
Heavenly Father, thank you for all the joy and love which I have experienced this Christmas season. It was your gift to me, and will never pass away. I beg for the grace to really understand the limitations imposed on me by my attachment to the things of the world. I pray that through this insight I will grow strong and wise, just as your Son grew during his childhood in Nazareth. Amen.
ACTION:Ask yourself if you are inappropriately attached to any of the myriad things of this world that we encounter throughout the day. What is the basis for that attachment? Have you freely chosen to be attached? How is that attachment limiting your freedom?
"The one who comes after me ranks ahead of me, for he was before me."(John 1:15)
15) There is no virtue as rare, as powerful or as beautiful as the virtue of humility. This word came from the Latin word HUMUS, which means soil, the lowest thing on earth. A story is told of a young man who attended a school of higher learning. He was respected by both faculty and students. While the party was going on one of his friends noticed a motto on his desk which contained the three words, "I am third" enclosed in a beautiful frame. All of his friends were very curious to know what it meant, so the young man explained it to them. He said that He has two finest parents in the world. It was a big sacrifice for them to keep him in college. On the night before he left home, his mother brought the little frame and asked him to keep it where he could see it everyday. His mother said to him, "My son, always remember that God is first, others are second and you are third." The one who puts himself in the last place will be the first.
OO Jesus, meek and humble of heart, hear me. From the fear of being humiliated, deliver me. From the fear of being despised, wronged, injured, deliver me. I pray that others maybe chosen, and I set aside, that others be praised and I unnoticed. Jesus grant me the grace to desire it. Amen.
ACTION:We must be meek and humble of heart like our Lord Jesus and not be proud. Pride is the opposite of humility and the cause of much unhappiness in life, of many grievances and criticisms, worries and broken marriages.
January 1
Thursday, World Day of Peace
"Be Perfect as my Father celestial is Perfect."(Matthew 5:48)
While I was reading Micah the section title, "The Kingdom of Peace of the Lord" caught my attention. Since I was a little girl I have been waiting hopefully to go to heaven. Many times before I grew in my personal faith I was asking where is heaven. My beloved grandfather was the first person I know who died. It is very possible that someone told me he was waiting for me. I was 4 years old and it was a very easy explanation. (Today my father, my sister, my daughter are there in the kingdom of peace of the Lord.) I grew very close to my grandfather. He was very spiritual, very faithful to God, very devoted to his family and specially to the Holy sacrament. My aunt Lustier, named in honor of her father Luis, helps me to study the catechism; they both influence my life positively. They love me very much and help me deepen my love for God, and for others. My mother surely knows where heaven is. In the more critical moments of my life, love and faith have been the Light in my life. My granddaughter surprised me by saying "Maybe we are going to Heaven because I don't know this way."
Dear Lord, help me to be as a child and understand your word. To love You and one another in the same way that You love us; because in following your way I please you. Dear Mother, help us in this pilgrimage. Amen.
ACTION:Visit Jesus in the Eucharist and receive the Sacraments. Go regularly to confession.
"Visit Jesus in the Eucharist and receive the Sacraments. Go regularly to confession."(John 1:13)
John is a voice crying in the wilderness. It convicted me. How many times I was ashamed to open my bible to read when I ride the metro. I was afraid that people around me would think that I was a weirdo - a Jesus freak! I didn't have the courage like John. His mission was to cry out to everyone to repent their sins and be baptized. Yet, each time I overcame the agony of conforming to others I had a wonderful time reading God's words. It makes my day joyful and a blessing. On my way to and from work on October 4th, I was blessed to meet some of the PROMISE KEEPERS. They radiated joy and love and the Holy Spirit was in the train with us. These men are truly witnesses for Jesus Christ!
Lord Jesus teach me to be bold like John so that I can tell others of your wonderful love for us. Help me to seek you daily in scripture and in prayers. May your joy radiate out from me so that others will see only You my Lord and my God. Amen.
ACTION:Help some to know Jesus. Be a witness for Christ.
"I did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, 'On whomever you see the Spirit come down and remain he is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.' Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God." (John 1:33)
John the Baptist came before Him, our Lord, and yet he didn't know him but believed in him. This struck me over and over as I read the scripture, that he did not know him. I remember not so long ago when I did not know him. I am so deeply aware of so many others who do know him. The Holy Spirit that shines in us and shows others who Jesus is - especially those who do not know him. You are the body of Christ, all of you, the parishioners, families, religious communities, the young, the old, the middle aged, the poor, the wealthy, the homeless, the single people, the sick, hurting and lonely. You are the presence of God in this world and you are the lamps in the darkness¼it is though all of you that I came to know our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Dearest Lord, thank you for your Holy Spirit and for your people. Help me to know you better so that I can be a light for others who do not know you. Help me Lord to be an example of you in this world. Amen.
ACTION:Talk to someone about our Lord Jesus, as you know him. Pray for someone who does not know him yet to be enlightened by the Holy Spirit to the presence of God.
"Upon you the Lord shines"(Isaiah 60:2 )
My reflection on these readings is that in both they are talking about the birth of Christ, Jesus. In Isaiah they are referring to Jesus as "the light." My feelings about both readings are strong. I feel that they are telling us to be open and welcome to the coming of baby Jesus. I also feel that they are telling us to be openhearted and to praise Him and His coming.
Your light has come, the glory of the Lord shines upon you. O Lord this star of wonder leads to you. Show us yourself in all people and circumstances. Amen.
ACTION: Look for the light of Christ today. Search for Him.
Come, Lord Jesus,
The earth cries out like a parched and dry land;
The
poisoned fish and polluted rivers and bay
The West Coast ravaged by the
rains of El Nino
The forests that burn in Indonesia
The planet itself
that grows warm
All cry
Come with healing rays for the garden you made.
Come Lord Jesus,
Palestinian and Israeli
Nationalist and Unionist
Tutsi
and Hutu
Victims of violence on streets and home
Abuser and abused
Cry
out
Come Lord Jesus mend the hearts that are broken.
The Advent to Epiphany Journey Those who reflected on the scriptures were asked to do so in the style of "lectio divina', a meditative way of reading with the heart rather than reading for content or information. One reads the scripture and lets the Spirit suggest a line to ponder. It is the line that challenges, comforts, or intrigues. In sharing the lines that moved our hearts, it is our hope that your journey from Advent to Epiphany will be formed by the Word of God also. May THIS SEASON OF LIGHT break through into our homes, families, work, neighborhood and world. May it turn us around, give us hope, direct our action. Come Lord Jesus.
This booklet for Advent and Christmas reflections is sponsored by CAFE: Communities for Adult Formation and Education at St. Charles community. A working team met in August to dream this project into being. Representatives from the ministry areas of Education, Social Justice, Liturgy, Latin America, Stewardship, Community Building and Hospitality were all asked to help solicit parishioners to do these meditations.
Revised/reviewed November 29, 2000
See also: More Advent reflections