Reflections on the Word: Advent Weekday – December 17, 2022
These readings remind us that God has a plan for history – our common history and our personal ones, and that God is putting that plan into action through Christ.
These readings remind us that God has a plan for history – our common history and our personal ones, and that God is putting that plan into action through Christ.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus recognizes in John the Baptist the spiritual return of the prophet Elijah – one of ancient Israel’s greatest prophets, whose resume is highlighted in the first reading from the book of Sirach.
My work at the U.S. bishops’ conference this past year has included significant efforts resourcing and promoting Catholic lay ministry and related preparation and formation activities.
On this Advent Saturday, the readings invite us to make an important to-do list for our spiritual well being and the well-being of our world.
Not everyone in the church has the same gifts – one is an apostle, one is a prophet, one is an evangelist; others are teachers, pastors and so forth. This is a great blessing in the church!
St. Theresa reminds us that when we see our lives and our world with God’s eyes, we focus on those things that are lasting and good – the spiritual bonds we share with one another and creation.