First Sunday of Advent
✠ | TODAY'S READINGS
As we begin this Advent season let us not get lost in the many preparations and commercial messages we receive about shopping. If we are not careful, we may miss what we’re celebrating. Pope Francis tells us Joy is the essence of the Christmas message. The Christmas season is about simplicity, smallness, and humility as we rejoice in the gifts of light, Christmas trees, gifts and carols. Christmas Joy comes from the heart rather than from external trappings that we sometimes mistake for essentials. Finding quiet and peaceful moments to speak with God will clearly focus us on God’s love for us on Christmas day. Advent is a time of quiet preparation and watchful waiting. “The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfill the promises, I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah” (Jeremiah 33:14).
In the Gospel today we hear Jesus speak to his disciples about the need for vigilance and prayer as they wait for the coming of the Son of Man in glory. Let us not become consumed by the anxieties and distractions of today. As we get older, we may experience a new and difficult emotion: Worry. We don’t need to be fearful about difficult things or about changes in our lives. God will give us the strength to face anything that might happen to us. Through prayer, God helps us to stay focused on that which is most important in our lives. On this first day of Advent, you may want to consider making an Advent Resolution in preparation for Christmas.
Thank you Brother Gabriel. I will never forget the beautiful and restorative silence I found on the Franciscan Pilgrimage and the great joy of sharing simple meals with the other Pilgrims. I appreciate your reflection today and I am blessed with beautiful memories that underscore your words. Pax et Bonum.
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