Genevieve Mougey, Executive Director of Catholic Charities Wyoming,
reflects on the readings for the Memorial of Saint John of the Cross.
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****Memorial of Saint John of the Cross****
Today's Lectionary Readings

It's the second week of Advent and the days feel like they are moving
beyond my grasp.  Cards are mailed out, presents bought and wrapped,
decorations are up and in the right place...but something feels off this
Advent season. 

I don't know that I remember the dark being so dark in previous
Advents.  It feels more imposing than prior years, stark, and
overbearing. Or is it overwhelming?  In the words of Scott Cooper of
Catholic Charities of Eastern Washington, "Both can be true."

Every year I seem to have the same resolve and desire: to read my
specially-procured Advent books, sit in the glow of twinkle lights and
soft candles, read from scripture, and relish the celebration of our
Incarnate Lord, Jesus Christ.  This should not be hard.

Instead, this year, I have found myself spending time in cars, waiting
rooms, lines at the post office, and trying to answer emails in a timely
fashion. Basically, doing everything but remembering to slow down, to
pause, to find peace in the fray, to move with a pace of deliberate
calm. 

Today is the feast of the great Spanish mystic, poet, and reformer, St.
John of the Cross. I recall his words, "In the dark night of the soul,
bright flows the river of God."  The readings today remind me of
hope, consolation, and promise, all things to hold onto and cherish in
tough moments of Advent. 

o   Where is the river of God flowing in your life right now? 

o   What do dark nights hold for you?

o   Where do you find consolation and promise in Advent?

**Genevieve Mougey is Executive Director of Catholic Charities
Wyoming.**

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