Memorial of Saint Ambrose

Readings of the Day 

As we continue our Advent journey, we sometimes need to stop and remember why we are doing what we are doing. Advent helps us prepare our hearts and minds for the second coming of Christ and the celebration of Christ’s birth on Christmas. Advent devotions remind us of the season’s meaning.

Today’s reading from Isaiah reminds us to be strong. God is coming to save us, no matter how bad things look, if we are willing to follow His way. This is a powerful statement. We have collectively been through hard times: changes in our family and work routines, and most critically in our church routines. Church closures help remind us of why we are Catholic, and what we most appreciate about the Eucharist. Watching Mass on television is not the same as celebrating in person with our church families. The Gospel reading focuses us on keeping the faith. Believers are rewarded either here on earth or in the next life.

On the work front, we’ve all become accustomed to “zooming.” We miss those with whom we work, both co-workers and clients. And speaking of clients, these months have been critical for so many of them, depending upon which of our programs they were served by. Those needing emergency services still need emergency services.

Although we could rearrange staff and hours and locations to provide our services, we had no control over outside circumstances. Our free volunteer income tax assistance was paused mid- March. Not just because we couldn’t work with clients, but the IRS was not available to accept the returns. Our “client choice” food pantry quickly became a regular food pantry for all in need.  And, hurricanes impacted parts of our nine-county area. We had to continually remind ourselves that we would get through everything with God’s help, and we have. As the psalm says, “Our God will come to save us!”

Today’s saint, St. Ambrose, lived in a time of major social divisions. He was once called to mediate a division in one city over the naming of a new bishop. His calm demeanor led both sides to call him as their new bishop. He ultimately devoted his life to helping the poor and the people of God. Peace and harmony were his priorities. He affirmed the independence of spiritual power. May we remember this as we live and work within today’s world.

This Advent, 2020, we might need to focus more on preparing ourselves for Christmas. It has been a long year. We have generally been living a new normal, while trying to maintain some semblance of our lives before COVID-19. I hope that you have daily activities and prayer resources that will prepare you spiritually for the birth of Jesus Christ.

Coquese L. Williams is Director of Parish Social Ministry for Catholic Charities of Southeast Texas, Beaumont.

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