We draw close to the end of this Advent Season of expectation, preparation, and waiting. For three weeks we have been anticipating that glorious day that is now just around the corner. Time to break from all the hustle and bustle that threatens to overwhelm the true meaning of this holy event and share in the pure joy of Mary and Elizabeth, two mothers expecting their first children, who in today’s gospel exult in each other’s blessedness in the visitation.
Sometime in this week we are likely to hear the saying, “The best things come in small packages.” Truly the most wonderful Christmas gift any of us have ever received was the gift of Jesus Christ, born from the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary over two thousand years ago. Besides Mary and Joseph, the first to receive this gift was her cousin, Elizabeth, who breaks out of a five-month seclusion with shouts of joy and awe when Mary, a few weeks pregnant, comes to visit.
This Thursday and Friday we celebrate the birth of our Lord into this world. We mark Jesus’ birth as a tiny baby, but also recognize that He is continually being born in our hearts and in our world as we allow Him to penetrate our innermost selves and let Him lead us to act in His name. Into a humble, lowly stable the light of the world was born. Into our humble, lowly hearts let the light of the world shine forth. God, Emmanuel, God-with-us always and forever.
On behalf of Fred, Carl, Donna, Mary Jo, Linda, Dale, Fr. George, and myself, we extend to you, your family, and friends, wishes for a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year.
Love, Peace, Joy,
Fr. Bob
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