Weekly Meditation December 14, 2009

We are half way through Advent and getting closer to our celebration of our Savior's birth. Yesterday's scripture readings for the Third Sunday of Advent called us to "rejoice." Joy is the tone and something of the "charge" of this third week of Advent.

The joy we speak of does not depend on external circumstances but on the nearness of God. How joyful we are in the presence of those who love us. What security, joy and peace we experience when we know someone we can rely on is near or we are again back in their presence. Children know and show this reality. We who are children of God have this same blessing and Advent is a time to be more aware and take advantage of this reality in our lives also.

Grab some more time this week for prayer and for prayerful reading of the Infancy Narratives in St. Matthew chapters 1-2 and St. Luke chapters 1-2. Ponder those sentiments and your use of time in general in the context of St. Paul's charge in yesterday's second reading to the Philippians:

Brothers and sisters: Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice! Your kindness should be known to all. The Lord is near. Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.