As we prepare
for Christmas, Advent invites us to slow down, to give thanks, and to prepare
our hearts for the coming of Jesus. It is also a time to hold in prayer those
in our world and in our families who may be facing challenges during this
season.
During this
final week of Advent, we rejoice in the endless love that God has for
us, which is made apparent in the birth of his Son. We reflect on the good news
of God's love brought to us from the angel Gabriel.
The Gospel for
this Sunday speaks of Mary and her husband, Joseph, and their obedience to God.
This obedience leads to bringing forth Jesus, the Savior of the World. The
conflicts and challenges both Mary and Joseph faced did not deter them from
trusting in God’s mission for them. The birth of Jesus signifies a new
beginning for all of us within God’s beautiful plan for our lives and
salvation. It is a time of renewed hope, peace, love, and new beginnings.
May these days
before the celebration of Christmas be filled with peace, hope, joy, and love
for all!