November 29 - Tuesday of the First Week of Advent

Hear Us O Lord!

Today's Readings

He shall rescue the poor when he cries out 

and the afflicted when he has no one to help him, 

He shall have pity for the lowly and the poor; 

the lives of the poor he shall save.

Psalm 72

God knows how to watch over the disabled, broken hearted, widow, and widower. He appoints and anoints others to pray, speak out, and help those that are in need. There are seasons when we all may feel afflicted or broken hearted; and during this uneasy transition it is important to remember there is a God who knows how to comfort us during this hurtful process. I would like to pose a question, “When was the last time you went out of your way to help your fellow brother or sister in need?” May you always remember to count your blessings no matter how big or small. 

Heather B. Duke member of Young Adult Ministry.

Books and Poems from Advent Evening of Reflection

At our recent Advent Evening of reflection there were several books and poems mentioned. Julie Berggren, our presenter kindly provided the full list. We are looking forward to several future evenings of reflection - February 18, March 15, and April 7. We hope that you are able to join us.

Sources from “Waiting with Hope in Advent”

Julie Berggren

Henry Nouwen, Eternal Seasons

“Faith is An Inkling” by Herbert McCabe from God, Christ and Us

“The Woman Whose Husband Was Dying” by Ted Kooser from Splitting an Order

“After Annunciation” by Madeleine L’Engle from Winter Song: Christmas Readings by Madeleine L’Engle & Luci Shaw

“There Was a Time: An Advent Poem” by Fr. Joseph Breigher from Catholic Review

Excerpt from “The Risk of Incarnation—A Christmas Meditation” by Parker Palmer from On Being, December 24, 2014 (www.onbeing.org)

Preparing for Christ

Advent is a time when we are reminded of the need to prepare for Christ’s coming. We actually prepare for Christ’s coming in three different times – sounds more like a Back to the Future movie than a liturgical season.

First, we are very familiar with the preparations to commemorate when Christ came to Earth in the historical context. Particularly this year, it is good to remember and honor where our Savior began his earthly journey. The Hispanic tradition of Las Posadas has all the more meaning as we watch news coverage of families seeking shelter, seeking home, seeking salvation.

Second, we prepare for Christ’s return. We do not know when that day or hour may be, so Advent is a time each year we remind ourselves to always be prepared. We are reminded to be aware of our relationship with God, with each other, and with the Church.

Finally, we prepare ourselves each day, every day to welcome Christ more fully into our hearts and lives. Looking to the past, when Jesus came to the world as an innocent child while looking to the future to the day when Christ our King will return, we are challenged to open ourselves more fully to God each and every day. In a world filled with so much fear, hatred, and violence, this call to invite the God of love, compassion, and strength into our hearts, minds, and souls becomes ever more necessary.

May your Advent be challenging and fruitful as you prepare for Christ’s coming in the past, future, and present