First Sunday in Advent

First Reading – Isaiah 63:16b-17, 19b; 64:2-7
Second Reading – 1 Corinthians 1:3-9
Gospel – Mark 13: 33-37

“LORD, I am ready for You to do a great work in me.” Can we speak these words honestly? Have we really prepared ourselves for the great works God will do in and through us? To answer truthfully, we must say yes and no. Throughout the year, like the Israelites in the first reading, we have experienced the wonderful works of God. There are many things for which we can be grateful. Yet, through our own human error and wonderment, we have also strayed away from God’s desires for us; seeking our own path. But we serve a merciful God; the One God, who Paul reminds us will strengthen us for the tasks ahead, “…so that you may be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.” We are however to be watchful and alert, keeping ourselves ready for the day of Christ’s return. The season of Advent gives us the opportunity to renew our commitment to Christ, the Church and one another. Awake! Take notice of what God is doing in, around and through you.

In the Silence

In the silence my God comes to me. There He helps me face myself. He searches me, stretches me, comforts me and encourages me. In the silence there is God.

My Meaning Your Meaning

What makes sense to me doesn't always make sense to others. Ever feel like no one understands you? Have people questioned why you do what you do? And when you tell them they are just as confused as before you explained? I'm struggling now with a person who doesn't find the same meaning is something that I do. I am locked in this battle that has great meaning for me, but represents form for the other.
How do we stand and press forward when my meaning conflicts with your meaning? Barack Obama showed us how. We stand tall in face of adversity knowing that truth and honesty will prevail. No matter the odds, when you know that you walk with God and the task ahead is just and righteous, you press forward. You acknowledge the struggle so that you can better equip yourself.
My meaning and your meaning may never merge, but what will happen is that we leave with a better understanding and respect for one another's point of view.
I cannot say enough about the importance of Christ's transformative love and its affect on me. I am better because Christ lives in me. I continue to move towards peace because life lived moving towards Christ is sooooo rewarding. As I am blessed, I pray that I bless you.