Advent Day 3

I read Luke Chapter 3 yesterday but didn't  get to publish my post, so here it is. 

John the Baptist  began preaching baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins - "..prepare the way of the Lord..."

He preached about practical ways to help others whether by sharing your extra clothing, being honest in your dealings with others, and by being content with the wages paid to you. 

John denied to all that he was the Christ and explained his unworthiness to even untie the sandals of the Christ. John baptized by water but Christ would baptize with the Holy Spirit  and fire.

Jesus was baptized by John in the Jordan. God spoke those famous words "You are my beloved son, with you I am well pleased".

The ancestry of Jesus through Joseph is fascinating and when read to the end of the chapter concludes "...the son of Seth, the son of Adam, the son of God." This should remind us that we all are descendants of Adam - the son of God - so our genealogy ends this same way.

Advent Day 2

The second chapter of Luke tells us the very familiar story of Mary and Joseph traveling to Bethlehem. Mary gave birth to Jesus in a manger because there was no room at the inn and he wore swaddling clothes. The shepherds are visited by the angels and told of the birth. They went to Bethlehem. 

Jesus was named and then presented at the temple. Simeon, inspired by the holy spirit, recognizes the Christ child, blesses God and then blesses Jesus's parents.

Jesus grew up in Nazareth.  After the Passover feast at Jerusalem the year Jesus was 12 years old, he stayed behind when his parents returned home. The first night they realized he was not with the group and returned to Jerusalem. After searching for him, they found him in the temple. Jesus said to them .."did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?"

Upon their return to Nazareth, Jesus was obedient to his parents. And Mary "kept all these things in her heart" - most earthly mothers would understand this. Jesus grew up and gained wisdom. 

This chapter covers the period of Jesus's life from birth to adulthood. Not much else is known except those events described here. Nearly everyone I know wants to know about those formative years that are not chronicled for us. However, I like to think that those events not told at the ones Mary and Joseph kept in their hearts - special, private, and not for public consumption. 

Advent 2020

Thanksgiving dinner is done - some stores are already opened for "Black Friday" and more will be opening soon. I don't buy into the Black Friday hoopla; however, I am getting very excited! Advent begins in just a few short days! Are you ready? I am frantically trying to decide which Advent resource we will use this year and what I am going to do to make it an even better Advent than the last.

Advent is not about how many Christmas cards I can get written and in the mail in the morning, although I do enjoying getting them sent out early (for many reasons). Advent is not about how many Christmas parties we have to attend. Neither it is about how many gifts need to be purchased and wrapped or what I am getting for my husband for Christmas (not even about what he is getting me!).

Advent is a time for preparation and anticipation. It is a time to ask God for forgiveness, forgive those who have wronged you, give of our time, talent, and treasures - especially for those who are less fortunate, and to celebrate the birth of our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ.

Also Advent appears to be a time when new deacons are ordained - at least in the Yakima Diocese. Next Saturday several men will be ordained as permanent deacons - including one from our parish. Mike, we are so happy that you have answered God's call to service. We will be praying for you and Carol this week as you prepare for this huge step. God bless you both.

So please join me in praying for the new deacons and preparing for an amazing Advent season. It is a busy time for all - especially the priests, deacons, and others in the parish who plan the amazing "special effects" for Advent. From the decorations, flowers, candles, and beautiful music to those who are lectors, acolytes, and alter servers - everyone is busy with the preparations and the extra Masses, etc. Remember to take time to thank God for all of your blessings and to pray for peace, kindness, and mostly for love. Our world needs all the love (and prayers) it can get.

Happy Advent all!