Second Sunday of Advent

12-08-2024Pastor's CornerFr. Bob Deehan

In this season of Advent, there are many feelings that arise from memories, present circumstances, and the rush of the season. For some, this may not seem to be “the most wonderful time of the year.” It may be because of the loss of a loved one, being out of work, or feeling overwhelmed with all there is to do. For others, it’s getting caught up in the joy of the season, picking out presents that hopefully will be “just right,” the heartwarming visits with friends and loved ones, or delighting in the colorful lights and decorations.

I bet you and I will experience a mixture of these feelings during this time of year.

And still, what we experience can bring opportunities that spring from a deepened awareness and sensitivity to what some people around us are going through. This can motivate us to want to become a tangible presence of Jesus to the people we encounter along our way. For example, we might share the joy of the season by providing a warm smile to a haggard mother waiting in a long line or by being patient with a checkout clerk who seems overwhelmed. Maybe, it’s offering a prayer for each person/family to whom we send Christmas greetings or making a special visit to someone we know who is not feeling very joy-filled this season.

It’s truly uplifting to witness the love, care, and generosity of so many in our parish who participate in the different opportunities for outreach to our needy brothers and sisters in the community. This season of celebrating the coming of Christ at Christmas affords us a chance to experience the presence of Christ among us here and now, present in the goodness, kindness, and compassion shown by God’s holy people. I invite you to let this season help you to focus on the not-so-obvious, as well as the obvious reasons for celebrating Christ’s coming among us. Being in touch with the true meaning of Christmas and its tangible effects can most certainly give us reasons for hope.