Advent through Christmas -- 2007
Sunday, December 16, Third Sunday in Advent
God’s Big Dream
John the Baptist did what God wanted him to do – he prepared the way for Jesus.
But John never lived to see the results. It wasn’t long after the incident in today’s Gospel that John was killed.
Now here’s a thought.
Am I willing to be part of something, invest myself in something that I’ll never live to see fully accomplished?
Some of those great cathedrals in Europe took over 100 years to build. People could work on one all their lives, knowing they’d never live to see it finished.
Well, God's plans for this world are far greater than our minds can grasp. God’s dream is a big dream. It includes all creation.
There will come a time when there is peace, and wholeness, and truth, and love. But I doubt any of us will live to see it.
So, do I throw up my hands and give up? Do I just try to get out of life what I can in the few years I’ve got?
That’s the question.
Am I willing to invest myself in a great work – God’s work – that I’ll never live to see finished?
Spend some quiet time with the Lord.
Advent through Christmas -- 2007
Monday, December 17, Third Week in Advent
How Long Is Advent?
Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before December 25. It always has four Sundays, but the total number of days can vary. For example:
• If Christmas falls on a Monday, then Advent lasts three weeks and a day.
• If Christmas falls on a Sunday, Advent lasts four full weeks.
* * * * * *
Regardless of when Advent begins, every year the same Scripture readings are used for weekdays from December 17-24. The Gospels on those days describe events leading up to the birth of Christ.
December 17: The genealogy of Jesus (Matthew)
December 18: The annunciation to Joseph (Matthew)
December 19: The annunciation to Zechariah (Luke)
December 20: The annunciation to Mary (Luke)
December 21: Mary’s visit to Elizabeth (Luke)
December 22: Mary’s “Magnificat” (Luke)
December 23: The birth of John the Baptist (Luke)
December 24: The “Benedictus” of Zechariah (Luke)
* * * * * *
When reading the Scripture passages in the second post for each day, read slowly. Let the Lord speak to you through these words.
