Wednesday of the Third Week of Advent

Readings of the Day

Friends: We are in the middle of the third week of Advent, and there are only seven shopping days left until Christmas.  In our scurrying around, we might be tempted to get stressed out right now to make sure that we have planned all our parties and bought presents for everyone on our shopping list.  But do not fret, do not worry: there is still time. It is never too late to prepare for an encounter with Christ, our Savior. 

In preparing for Christ, consider going to Mass today. If you do, you might notice that "justice" is a thread that connects the scripture readings for today’s Mass.  Jeremiah names the promised one “the LORD our justice” because he shall reign and govern wisely and do what is right and just. The psalmist specifically calls out the poor and the afflicted, and the response promises that “Justice shall flourish in our time, and fullness of peace for ever.” And the gospel reading recounts how Joseph planned to divorce Mary quietly when he learned of her pregnancy, because “he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame.”  Jesus’ foster father was a man of justice and mercy, too.

Consider "justice" in light of Advent, our Christmas preparation. Who does not want to know and love justice?  We are attracted to justice because in our consciences, we know what is right and good and just, even in our blindness.  Do you not know that as much as we long for mercy and justice, the ‘Lord our justice’ longs even more to meet us, to show us mercy and justice?  With only a week to go, it is not too late.  Let us not be distracted by worry or fear by trying to measure up. Let us slow down, catch a breath, and prepare our hearts to meet the just and merciful Savior.  When our hearts our ready to receive, we will be better prepared to serve.

Alan Pickett is Executive Director of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Covington (KY).

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