Sunday | December 19, 2021
Luke 1:39-45:
This is a beautiful encounter between two women with child, one the messenger and the other the message. Elizabeth realizes she is in the presence of holiness in Mary, the mother, and her child.
We pray for all children not yet born. May their mothers recognize this gift no matter the circumstances and understand the potential this tiny human person has.
Saturday | December 18, 2021
Matthew 1:18-25:
In the first chapter of Matthew’s Gospel, we move through the centuries to the moment in time when God’s plan is revealed. At the heart of the story is a good man, conflicted yet obedient to God’s will. His plan to handle the situation discreetly changes because of the words of the divine messenger from God.
St. Joseph, patron of the universal Church, we ask you to pray for God’s Church throughout the world that she may lead justly and serve with compassion.
Friday | December 17, 2021
Matthew 1:1-17:
Matthew’s Gospel begins with the genealogy, setting Jesus in history. The son of David and Abraham is placed within the Jewish tradition, no doubt an intentional message to the members of Matthew’s community.
I honor and respect the Jewish tradition, my roots as a Catholic Christian. At the same time, my Jewish sisters and brothers may come to know Jesus Christ, the Messiah.
Thursday | December 16, 2021
Luke 7:24-30:
Jesus describes John in glowing terms and reveals their relationship. Jesus says no one is greater. John is a prophet but one who stands out among those who have gone before him. He comes like Elijah, but he is the herald of the Messiah.
In a similar way, we are called to prepare the way for Jesus’ return. It is a daunting mission, but we are not alone. Come Holy Spirit.
Wednesday | December 15, 2021
Luke 7:18-23:
Like others, John the Baptist’s followers have preconceived ideas about the Messiah. Would he be a warrior, priest, prophet or a mighty king? They misunderstand all that had been foretold which clouds their judgment. Jesus words and deeds should have been enough.
Your power is greater than what the world understands power to be. Love can do so much more than hate. Save us.
Tuesday | December 14, 2021
Matthew 21:28-32:
In this parable, the second son refuses his father’s order but then has a change of heart and obeys his father. In a similar way, those who are sinners repent and change their ways in response to God’s will. It is the other son Jesus compares to his opponents, whose promise to obey stands in sharp contrast to his actions.
St. John of the Cross, we know well through your writings that faith and love guide us. Pray for us.
Monday | December 13, 2021
Matthew 21: 23-27:
Many follow Jesus, who leads with authority. At the same time, the Jewish leaders reject him because of his claim. They try to trap him questioning the source of his authority and find themselves trapped by Jesus’ response.
Jesus you are a gifted teacher. I am thankful to be your disciple and pray to always be open, to listen, to learn and to act in accordance with your will. Saint Lucy, pray for us.
Sunday | December 12, 2021
Luke 3:10-18:
The crowds, tax collectors and soldiers question John about what they should do to be worthy in the eyes of God. This beautiful Gospel is but a moment of triumph for John. He answers their question and tells them good news about the one who is yet to come.
Amid the sorrow and suffering in the world, I am reminded that there is good reason to rejoice always in what is and what is to come.
Saturday | December 11, 2021
Matthew 17:9, 10-13:
Jesus has warned the disciples not to talk about their “vision.” In this sequel to the Transfiguration, it is understandable that the disciples would have questions following their divine experience on the mountain. They want to understand what had been foretold about the coming of Elijah to which Jesus explains, the prophet has come in the person of John the Baptist.
We are commissioned to prepare the way for your return. May we do so in ways that are pleasing to you and that will deliver your people from darkness to light.
Friday | December 10, 2021
Matthew 11:16-19:
John was rejected for his austerity and Jesus for his generous and inclusive ways. Jesus compares “this generation” to fickle and pouty little children. In the end divine Wisdom will uphold the mission of both John and Jesus despite their rejection.
What will it take for this generation to listen to you? I want to rail against them but hear you say, “patience, perseverance and prayer”.
