Daily Reflection for Monday, December 23, 2019
Peace and Blessings, Friends and Parishioners!
We encourage you to reflect on Monday’s readings at this link:
http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/122319.cfm
If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are:
First Reading: Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24
Responsorial: Psalm 25:4-5AB, 8-9, 10 and 14
Gospel: Luke 1:57-66
Our reflection on Monday’s readings:
“And who can stand when he appears? For he is like the refiner's fire”
(Malachi, 3:2)
The sense of awe and wonder is touchable this time of year. Advent preparations bring us to this 4th week of our season of waiting. Spending time in prayer and reflection surrounding the miracle that is about to occur and live within our midst helps us to prepare for God’s appearance in flesh on this earth.
I also have spent time in reflection on the preparations we've made for this season in our home. Each year I find myself wanting to be less about doing and more about being. There is a tug between sitting and growing deeper in my understanding of what God has in store for me and the reality of wanting those who will gather with us to feel known and loved. Being the baker and creator that He has made me to be also means there is a certain amount of candy and cookies required for the season to be complete.
But, in the words of the first reading today, how can I ensure that I am ready to stand when He arrives and brings to us the refiner’s fire? The words alone evoke powerful images of an overwhelming brightness and glory. The sense of awe and reverence is real as I gaze into the fire of God’s love. How can I stand in His presence and let His power refine me to be the best of whom He created me to be?
In our gospel, Zechariah remains mute until the prophecy of the Lord is complete in his life. Once he followed God’s plan for him and his family, then his voice returned. I find in these words a guide to being able to stand before God’s fire. Listen and respond. Listen to what God is truly asking and then respond out of the call that is heard.
Let us stand together in anticipation of His arrival in our midst, offering up the work we have done this Advent to prepare.
In Heartfelt Joy,
Lynne Brennan