December 24 - Thursday of the Fourth Week of Advent

Fidelity, Love and Eternity

Today's Readings

Today’s texts have overwhelmed me with the richness of visuals and depth of God’s goodness! Three things are beautifully illuminated: 

• God’s fidelity
• Love without measure
• Eternity

Fidelity is a biggie today. 

All throughout these texts, we are given examples of the LORD’s promises, and —this is key — His constancy of their fulfillment. His absolute greatness is incomparable. Promises matter to God and He is faithful in all things … we can trust EVERYTHING to, in and about Him!

God’s love is literally without measure. 

My vocation as an artist constantly reminds me of this unedited, full-blown love as I work in the studio. He destroys the boundaries established by sin, fear and doubt. He shifts my sight toward Him and all of me is restored … enabling me to share the beauty and love HE IS through my work! Set yourself to serve Him without reservation and His love will completely transform everything.

Finally, eternity … WOW! 

The texts are abundant with how God’s fidelity, greatness, love, and even David’s Kingdom ARE FOREVER! It truly calls us to relinquish our own self-sufficiency and the need to be the creator (instead of being in relationship with The Creator). He makes the way before us … Glory be to Him!

REFLECTIONS

• What might be some initial steps you’d be willing to take – even just for today — in giving all things to Him if you knew His promises are always fulfilled?
• In what ways do you put boundaries on God’s creation, blessings and great love? How might you lessen your grip on self-attainment and instead realign with the wonderment of His surprise, His constancy even in unknown?
• By reflecting on eternity, might you relinquish the efforts by your hands alone, and instead honor God as the true Creator of all that is good and right?

Reflections by Jill McLean

December 23 - Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Advent

A Family

Today's Readings

The readings and gospels of the Advent season highlight anticipation of and preparation for a brighter future following the birth of our Lord.  Many of these Advent readings also emphasize the importance of families in guiding our values, traditions, and building of our Christian faith.

The Gospel for the fourth Wednesday in Advent highlights the birth and naming of John, the son of Elizabeth, John the Baptist.  The Gospel notes an impression among believers that the ‘hand of God’ plays a role in our lives and in guiding our decisions - in this Gospel story, as seen in the naming of a child outside of the standing tradition to be named after his father.  This Gospel of the Advent season showcases the mutual affection and respect displayed by members of a family for each other and the central role that families play in forming our faith and Christian lives. 

Where do you sense the presence of the 'hand of God' in your life and your family life? 

Reflection by Ken H.

December 22 - Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Advent

At What Length?

Today's Readings

In the reading from the Book of Samuel, Hannah gives her child to Eli for life long service to God. She took her dedication to the Lord to the point of giving her child to him. I wonder if this is how mothers of priests feel.

The Gospel is the Canticle of Mary. Mary agrees to be the Mother of Jesus, giving her life totally to the Lord. Her life was not to be anything like she probably imagined.

At what lengths are we willing to go to dedicate our lives to the Lord? Each day, we are faced with decisions that can lead us toward God or lead us away from him. How will we answer?

Reflection by Donna C.

December 21 - Monday of the Fourth Week of Advent

Welcoming Mary and Jesus

Today's Readings

When the pregnant St. Elizabeth greeted St. Mary at her home upon the latter’s arrival, which came as a surprise after a long journey for the newly pregnant Mary, the two engaged in an exchange of love and praise. As we learn from the text, this exchange, both in terms of Mary’s motivation to undertake the travel and effort and Elizabeth’s response to her visit was inspired by the Holy Spirit. We also see that from the outset, Elizabeth focuses not on whether or not she is worthy of the visit from Mary and the unborn Lord Jesus in her womb but rather on the greatness of Mary. Moreover, Elizabeth is not only excited for herself but for her child as well, who is blessed by the presence of Mary and Jesus.

To reflect more deeply on this text, we might consider:

• What are some of the qualities of a saint that Elizabeth displays through this interaction? 
• Are we as happy as Elizabeth to know that Mary and Jesus care for us and wish to assist us in our times of difficulty? What can we learn from this interaction that may increase our own appreciation of their love and presence in our lives?

Reflection by Aaron Keller

December 20 - Fourth Sunday of Advent

A Miraculous, Humble Beginning

Today's Readings

In tandem, the three readings ask us to reflect upon the miracle conception and birth of Jesus Christ. From the prophecy of Micah calling forth a new ruler from Bethlehem, to Mary and Elizabeth both immaculately conceiving children, ending with Jesus’ purpose to rid us of sacrifices and offerings to, instead, follow His example. On the fourth Sunday of Advent, the readings require a bit of remembrance and reflection upon the beginnings of Christ, a reaffirmation of faith in his miracle, and belief in God’s power.

Questions for deeper reflection

• Why is it important for us to move away from offerings to emulating Christ? How is that both more rewarding and more challenging?
• Why do you think Mary was in such a hurry or “haste” to see Elizabeth?
• We often think and talk about the importance of Jesus’ crucifixion in our lives, but what role does Mary’s virgin conception play in our lives both as Christians and our daily lives?

Reflection by Gene Mitchell

Participant in RCIA

December 19 - Saturday of the Third Week of Advent

Parallel Births

Today's Readings

There are lots of areas on which to comment on today’s Daily Reading. What struck me were the similarities. The first Reading and Gospel took place in different centuries. In each, God chose two humble women to each bear a son for His service. Both women were childless and barren. The angel of God appeared to Manoah’s wife and to Elizabeth’s husband Zachariah with a message that they would give birth to a son and the son is to be nazirite for God (consecrated) from the womb. Although they were afraid of the angel, they were obedient. Manoah’s wife gave birth to Samson; and Elizabeth gave birth to John (the Baptist). Samson would begin the deliverance of Israel from the Philistines. (To his detriment, Samson disobeys a vow by cutting his hair.) Both sons went on to do great things for God and His people.

A stranger approaches you, claiming to be an angel of God. This self-proclaimed angel tells you that God wants you to do something. How would you react? Would you trust this person is God’s messenger?

Donna Moy and The Holy Spirit

Donna is also in RCIA and is looking forward to receiving the Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil this spring.

December 18 - Friday of the Third Week of Advent

Miracles of Miracles

Today's Readings

Our reading today tells the wonderful miracle story of the Annunciation of our LORD Jesus Christ. Joseph, noted as son of David, like Mary shows steadfast obedience to GOD’s direction without waver. Ever aware of his calling from the LORD, Joseph acts in love and duty fulfilling his sacred obligation. Jesus, Emmanuel meaning “God is with us” is the miracle of all miracles; he begins his earthly journey from this point to his passion for our salvation. 

In today’s world miracles still abound. Yet this passage suggests that by choosing Jesus as our savior he “is with us.” It is the most profound, sacred and prized of all miracles. We are a part of the miracle of miracles! With such a gift we are called to pause and give the moment over to God in praise to him by our acts of charity and kindness towards others. This passage seems to be itself a catalyst awakening the thankful heart in us all for the ultimate gift from GOD! Like Joseph we awake each day blessed to the miracle that we are, saved through our obedient faith in the LORD whose birth begins the penultimate sacrifice for all mankind. 

Thanks be to GOD in the HIGHEST! 

In which ways do you repay God for his gifts in your daily life? 

What sacred obligations is our LORD asking you to fulfill during advent? 

Like Joseph, are there miracles waiting to happen around? Have you fallen asleep to God’s request? Won’t you awake to this call?

Reflection by Chris Pope

December 17 - Thursday of the Third Week of Advent

Belonging to Christ, Listening as Mother Mary Does

Today's Readings

In our Gospel today, we see the lineage that we as Christians belong to. Genealogy gives us a sense of belonging to our family tribe. This tribe might be relatives or friends who help us to understand the importance of community. All ethnic groups flock to their Church to find others who have the same belief system they do. We see that there are 14 generations from the Babylonian exile to Christ. This knowledge gives us a sense of belonging to Christ. There are frustrations as well as joys in belonging to family; we all have unique parts to our family and a definition of family that is different from others. This season we have a chance to truly listen as Mother Mary did to Angel Gabriel as he told her she would be the Mother of God. Listen to those who need it the most in our families and offer them our loving concern.

How do people outside the realm of Catholic/Christians feel that sense of belonging to Christ?

What about the gangs in Chicago how can we use their sense of belonging to shift to belonging to Christ?

In our own Church how do we invite other people to belong to our everyday or Sunday Mass?

Reflection by Dr. Eileen Quinn Knight

December 16 - Wednesday of the Third Week of Advent

Go

Today's Readings

If we see and hear, we must go tell. John's disciples approached Jesus with genuine questions. Unlike others who tried to question him in order to entrap him, these questions were truly meant to understand who Jesus was. Jesus doesn't directly answer their questions (as is so often the case). Rather these men witness the ministry of Jesus, including many miracles and healings. The story ends with the men being told simply, "Go and tell John what you have seen and heard."

We are called to do the same - to go and tell others what we have seen and heard.

Where have you seen God in your life? 

Who is an example for you of a faith-filled disciple? Why is this person a role model for you?

How can you share the love, joy, and mercy of God with those around you today?

December 15 - Tuesday of the Third Week of Advent

Openness to Change

Today's Readings

Today’s readings ask us to approach our lives with an openness to change. In the reading from Zephaniah, the Lord says, “I will change and purify the lips of the peoples.” In the Gospel, Jesus shares the parable of the two sons, one who initially said no to working in the vineyard when his father asked but then changed his mind and went, and the other son who agreed to work but never did. Jesus explains that the first son did his father’s will because he eventually went to the vineyard, even though it required a change of heart.

God does not ask us to be perfect. Instead, these readings encourage us to move from spiritual complacency to becoming more aware of the areas in ourselves and our lives that are most in need of God’s transformation.

During this notoriously chaotic Christmas season, how are you allowing enough time in the day for God to transform your heart?

In which areas of your life do you need God’s help?

How open are you to the spiritual growth God has intended for you?

Reflection by Annie Syrowski

December 14 - Memorial of St. John of the Cross

Picking a Side

Today's Readings

This Gospel annoys me at first. Like most things that annoy me, I quickly realize it is because it hits close to home. I want that straight forward answer from God. I want the neon sign making it easier to have faith, easier to know what I am to do with my life, easier to be a disciple. Yet, I know that I do not always make it clear to others that I have this Catholic faith, that I believe I have a calling in life, that I am trying to live as a disciple. When things are uncomfortable, or I'm just too tired to deal with the issue, or I would rather be a bit selfish it is tempting to hide that faith, that call, that role of disciple. It is tempting to blend passively into the background instead of boldly declaring who I am and Whose I am. 

In today's Gospel Jesus is basically saying we have to pick a side. We have to say what we believe and to live that belief out in our daily lives.

What people and circumstances make it difficult for you to boldly live as a disciple?

What is one way you can more fully live as a disciple today? 

December 13 - Third Sunday of Advent

We “Rejoice” in the coming of the Lord!

Today's Readings

Today, the third Sunday of Advent, also called “Gaudete Sunday,” reminds us to live today and every day with a spirit of joyful rejoicing. Taken from the first word of the opening prayer at Mass, “Gaudete,” Latin for “rejoice,” reminds us of the joyful expectation of the coming of the Lord, both at the end of the age and in the memorial of the Feast of the Nativity. For the first two weeks of the season our focus has been on reflection, penance and prayerful waiting and preparation as we await Jesus’ second coming at the end the of the age. Today we rejoice that our faith revolves not just around penance and wallowing in our sinfulness, but in the confidence that Jesus our savior has removed the judgement against us. It reminds us that Jesus continually renews us with his love. This sense of rejoicing is symbolized in the change in color of the priest’s vestments from purple to rose and the lighting of the rose-colored candle in the Advent wreath. How do we live rejoicing? In Luke’s Gospel we see the crowds asking John the Baptist the same question and his answer is as practical today as it was then. John tells those who asked the question they should live simply, share their resources and come back to a sense of justice. He impressed this on the Roman soldiers, tax collectors and the people alike. 

How are you especially aware of the poor and vulnerable and do you support them?

How do you practice charity, not just alms giving but addressing the social and political dimensions of poverty?

Reflection by Nick O'Hearn

December 12 - Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe

The Declaration of the Kingdom of God

Today's Readings

In today’s reading, God, calls on a meek, young woman of faith to take on the greatest mission for humanity. Mary, is frightened and concerned with the magnitude of her mission. However, God, provides her with answers to her questions. It is then, Mary accepts and makes her declaration.

1. Have you ever had a calling that is challenging and/or frightening?
2. What did you have to give up or face, to rise up into the calling?
3. Did the Holy Spirit guide you through the work? Perhaps, through resources, people or clarity.

Reflection by Jaime Gonzalez

December 11 - Friday of the Second Week of Advent

Shake it Off

Today's Readings

Taylor Swift’s song “Shake it Off” is a generational anthem about being true to yourself and the happiness that results from doing so. Today’s readings are not at all dissimilar- in both the reading and the Psalm, God lays out his promise of what we are to receive as a result of leading a devoted life. Essentially, what He is promising us is fulfillment. At the time of the Old Testament the primary concern of those reading the scriptures was the continuity of one’s family lineage. For God to say that we would have descendants as numerous as the sand is metaphor for saying that we will find fulfillment and spiritual wealth by following God. This is God’s promise and covenant with us. But like any good promise, it gets more complicated when we go to put it into practice. The day’s Gospel demonstrates this point.

Jesus, when talking about the Pharisees points out the inherent hypocrisy in rejecting John the Baptist for refusing food and drink while at the same time rejecting Jesus as a glutton for eating and drinking with tax collectors and sinners. The Pharisees are a good foil to demonstrate how the world will treat a religious individual. No matter what you do, someone seeking to take issue with you will take issue with you. Taking these two passages together, it is clear that someone who seeks to follow God cannot worry about perception, but instead have faith in God that the vindication he promises will come to fruition even when doubt is cast on you from external forces. Or in other, more contemporary words, “haters gonna hate, so I’m just gonna shake it off, shake it off.”

Reflection by Nicole Burdette

Nicole is another participant in our RCIA program and is looking forward to joining the Church fully at the Easter Vigil this year.

December 10 - Thursday of the Second Week of Advent

Learning from HIM

Today's Readings

Loving Father,

Please give us strength to trust in Your Wisdom in the midst of our trials.. Through the meek and humble heart of Your Son JESUS, please enable us to journey toward you, entrusting all our burdens to Your steadfast Love.

How has GOD's Wisdom helped you today?

Reflection for GOD's Glory

December 9 - Wednesday of the Second Week of Advent

Love Wins

Today's Readings

In Jesus' Parables, what did he teach us about love and compassion?

We understand that whatever situation confronts us that Jesus is willing and able to embrace us and give us peace and rest when our burdens and hearts are heavy. When Jesus walked the earth he healed the blind, the lame walked, the lepers were cleansed, the deaf were able to hear and he preached the gospel to the poor. 

What a marvelous way to show love. LOVE WINS! 

Reflection by Annon.

December 8 - Immaculate Conception

Today is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is one of the feast days that edges out the Advent readings in honor of the feast.

Our MOM

Today's Readings

Our MOM was conceived this day!  Immaculately!!!!  Oh how I love her, adore her, am devoted to her!  When we pray, through her intersession, she offers our prayers to GOD. Divinely skillful, she knows how to make gold of our dross, our impurities.  Our MOM ceaselessly , with grace, covers our weaknesses before the face of GOD.  

Mary Mother of GOD.  Pray for Us!

How has Our MOM cared for you today?

Reflection for GOD's Glory

December 7 - Monday of the Second Week of Advent

Faith as a Verb

Today's Readings

Today’s scriptures describe faith as action and in action. Using dramatic imagery, the reading from Isaiah tells us what will happen when our Lord comes again – the desert and the parched land will exult, streams will burst forth in the desert, the eyes of the blind will be opened, and the lame will leap like a stag. 

In the Gospel reading, a group of men carry a paralytic man on a stretcher through the crowds so he can be healed by Jesus. After failing to reach Jesus this way, they climb a roof and are able to lower the man directly in front of him so he can be healed. These men exercised great faith not only through prayer, but in the way they took care of each other. 

How can we continue to push ourselves to express our faith through action? On this Feast Day of St. Ambrose, a saint who believed “giving to the poor was not to be considered an act of generosity, but a repayment of resources that God had originally bestowed on everyone equally and that the rich had usurped,” consider sharing your resources or talents with those less fortunate.

Reflection by Annie Syrowski

December 6 - Second Sunday of Advent

Hope

Today's Readings

Advent gives me hope. In Advent, I await GOD's Mercy....and when His Mercy comes.....It is a Baby! 

Oh Little Child of Mercy, please have mercy on me, your little child.

Do you smile when you hope in JESUS?

Reflection for GOD's glory

December 5 - Saturday of the First Week of Advent

How Do We Respond to Jesus’ call?

Today's Readings

In the first reading today, from the Prophet Isaiah, we see how God provides for his chosen people by providing rain for the seed, wheat from the soil and pasture for the flock. We see those promises from the Old Testament fulfilled in the new covenant in the person of Jesus in Matthew’s Gospel. We see that Jesus was constantly on the move, teaching in synagogues, proclaiming the advent of the Kingdom of his Father, healing the sick and showing compassion for the harassed and depressed people with no direction in their lives, who are like sheep without a shepherd. If we look around us we see that Jesus needs our help today much as he relied on his disciples in the early days of the Church. Every one of us is called to be a “laborer” for the Lord, as Matthew points out in today’s Gospel. And what are we to do? Reach out to our families, neighbors, colleagues at work and anyone who comes into our lives with the God’s message of hope, especially in this season of Advent.

Do you long to see God’s face?

How do you find God in the faces of the distressed we encounter in our daily lives?

How do you see God in the faces of those caught up in the horrible tragedies overseas?

Reflection by Nick O'Hearn