Tuesday of the Third Week of Advent

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In today’s readings I am reminded that Advent is a time where we work to be better and make improvements within our lives as we wait for Jesus Christ to be born. The first reading seems very relevant to the state of our society now and the need for God in our lives. We all have suffering and failures. Right now, we are all affected by the COVID- 19 pandemic which has magnified hardship, taken loved ones from their families, and turned everyday life upside down. When we do not listen to God’s word and make up our own self-serving rules ignoring our neighbor’s needs, we all suffer. By not following the path that God has set for us leads us to feel isolated, unhappy, and unfulfilled. I am reminded that during bad times one needs to stay connected to God, to remain humble, honest and continue performing good, kind, selfless acts. As God says, “They shall pasture and couch their flocks with none to disturb them”. The Responsorial Psalm speaks to the fact that God loves the poor, the sick, and those that have trials. During times of trials and tribulations we tend to blame Him and feel abandoned, but instead we need to remember that we are not alone, that we are loved and that we can ask God for help as we stay humble. What brings comfort is also knowing that at any time one can make the choice to change one’s actions and God will recognize this change. In the Gospel Jesus is speaking with chief priests and elders but states: “Amen, I say to you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the Kingdom of God before you. When John came to you in the way of righteousness, you did not believe him; but tax collectors and prostitutes did”. In our lives we can take the steps to do better whether it be how we treat one another, speak up against hate speech and inequitable practices, refuse to participate in gossip spreading and commit to our studies with integrity. While always believing, honoring, and staying connected with God. Staying close to the Lord will make peace and goodness a reality within our lives.

Mary O'Shea

Interim Director, Academic Enhancement Center