December 18, 2011
4th Sunday of Advent
One week to go with 101 things to do! We can pray for energy to accomplish all the tasks or cut the list to basics. Mary, the mother of Jesus, becomes our model and mentor. She lives with anticipation of God's presence and coming. She welcomes Gabriel -- an angelic messenger. We too must live watching and waiting for the unexpected coming of Christ. Mary listens to the angelic greeting. We should listen more attentively to the living word of God proclaimed at Mass and whispered in our hearts. St. Luke points out that Mary is deeply trouble with Gabriel's greeting. We must admit that we are stressed and stretched -- only with honesty will we have a more realistic hope for joy and peace. Mary ponders the greeting and invitation to become the mother of Jesus. We too should reflect on the precious gift we receive that cannot be wrapped and placed in box under the Christmas tree -- the very presence of God in Christ. Mary questions the meaning of the angel's words: "How can this be?" We too should ask questions in order to come to deeper discernment and faith of what is precious and essential. Mary goes to visit Elizabeth, her kinswoman, who is pregnant and part of God's plan. We should have a kindred spirit or soul mate to celebrate Christ's coming and praise God. Finally, Mary says "yes" or "let it be." We too should say "yes" to being part of God's mysterious plan and good work in the world. Our "yes" is a surrender to God's will.
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3rd Sunday of Advent
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Nativity of the Lord
