Third Sunday of Advent

12-17-2023Weekly ReflectionFr. Fred Adamson

Dear Parishioners,

We continue our Advent journey and once again hear from John the Baptist this weekend. He reminds us that he came to testify to the lights, to Jesus. He was not the light but the one who prepares the way for the light, for others to encounter the deep love and mercy of Jesus.

This time of year we can become very busy with preparations for Christmas—cooking, cleaning, shopping, getting ready for guests, decorating and countless other things. Sometimes, it can all seem overwhelming, but remember what is most important is your love for Him and the way it is reflected in His heart full of love you.

Be sure to slow down and be still—Be Watchful—Be Alert—Listen. When putting up the lights think of the light of Christ and what a difference the lights of the tree make in a dark room in the house. Think of the feeding and care of the multitudes when getting ready for guests. Remember gifts are given in connection to the great gift of our Savior. Almost all traditional Christmas practices can be connected to faith and provide an opportunity to rejoice with generous hearts.

Next weekend the 23rd, 24th, and 25th, will be busy here at the parish. There will be three morning Masses for the 4th weekend of Advent, followed by the first Christmas Eve Mass at 4:00pm, then a 4:15pm Mass in the Parish Hall, 6:00pm and 10:00pm. Christmas Day Masses are at 9:00am and 11:00am. We will no doubt have many guests on campus. Let us welcome them with true Cristian witness and hospitality. Like guests in our home, they are here in our spiritual home—we are happy to have them here and pray the Lord will touch their hearts with His grace. That means preparing our own hearts for the craziness of parking, people sitting in our familiar pew, and strangers to our regular Sunday celebrations. We must remember they are all God’s children and there is great hope that he can touch them in a special way.

Don’t forget to be alert...to watch and listen for the way the Lord reveals Himself to us as Emmanuel-God is with us. Practice the habit of writing down a word, sentence, encounter that touches you in some way. Even if it is a frustration...sometimes God speaks through them to help us grow in patience or other virtues.

Advent—a time of preparation, hope and longing to see God’s face more clearly. May the Lord help you to hear and see Him in an amazing way this Advent and Christmas season.

Blessings in Him,

Fr. Fred