Advent Daily Reflections Header

 

 




Saturday of the Second Week of Advent

Today's Lectionary Readings
[link removed]

As we continue on our Advent journey, we seem to be racing towards
Christmas and the gifts of newborn hope, joy and optimism that awaits
us through the holy celebration of the Nativity of our Lord Jesus - in
just two weeks!

Christmas is also a sobering reminder that our Savior and King of the
Universe came into the world as a homeless and poor refugee, being
born outside and placed in an animal trough. More than 2000 years
later, most of us don't have to look far to see the plight of so
many of God's most vulnerable children who face these same
inhumane conditions, here in the richest and most powerful nation
known to mankind.

Part of my personal struggle is that while I take some satisfaction in
knowing that the transforming outcomes of our teams, volunteers, and
donors really make a difference with our struggling clients, I often
carry home the weight of those that still suffer in silence with no
hope.

When I began to pray over writing this reflection, I was drawn to
today's Responsorial Psalm: "Lord, make us turn to you;
let us see your face, and we shall be saved." As Pope Francis,
the Jesuit, models so beautifully, the "both/and" takeaway
for me is to humbly implore the Holy Family to help open my heart to
this message of renewal and salvation: for me, for those we serve, and
those who serve.

Heading home after a long day with an "empty tank,"
especially at this time of year, the gift of renewal and hope can
sometimes pass me by while I am leaning in to our work without the
recognition of the gentle breeze of the Holy Spirit on my shoulder.
Maybe you can relate.

Dear Lord, please open the hearts and minds of my colleagues and me to
be aware and open to our need for refreshment and new life for our
souls. Father in Heaven, make us strong, and give us new life, as we
call upon your Name to heal us, to strengthen us, and to save us.
Amen.

Deacon Thomas Roberts is President and CEO of Catholic Charities of
Southern Nevada.




View this message in your browser. 
[link removed]

Forward this message.
Update your email preferences.
[link removed]
[link removed]