2022 Advent Reflection – Week Three
The Sisters of the Living Word offer you these Advent Sunday reflections as we move into this new Church Year. Advent is a transition time, a transformation time. So much of our lives and world are in need of transformation today. Personally, nationally and globally there are so many situations moving us to consider differing options and opinions. All the Advent Readings urge us to look to the future work of God while paying attention to the good works we witness in the present. As Jesus told John the Baptist’s disciples in Week 3, see what is happening and know God is here with us. We, like Joseph in Week 4’s Gospel, need to awake and do what we are called to do to prepare for the coming of Christ Jesus all around us.
Week 3 Advent Reflection
Written by Ruth Platte, SLW
The readings for this Gaudete Sunday urge us to look closely at what is happening around us yet not get overwhelmed by the darkness we may see. God is still in control of creation. God is in our midst. And the presence of Emmanuel, God- with-us, is our true cause for joy. (Isaiah 35:1-6a, 10 and Matthew 11:2-11)
The Gospel relates how John, from his prison cell, turns to Jesus for assurance and confirmation that Jesus is indeed the Messiah. John’s disciples are sent to ask Jesus, “Are you the one who is to come or should we look for another?”
Jesus does not answer John’s question directly but tells the seekers to go out, search for signs of hope and life in their world, and then report back to John “what you hear and see.” Look for miracles and transformation taking place. Be aware of all that is coming to new life and see in all this the hand of God at work as the prophet Isaiah foretold.
Wake Up! The Messiah is here in our midst…. the eyes of the blind are opened, the deaf hear, and the lame leap up. Good news indeed and the reason for joy in spite of difficulties. “Be strong, fear not! Here is your God.” (Isaiah 35)
As “seekers” ourselves, we get insight into God’s plan of action by looking around in our local communities for “miracles.” I suggest we might begin by noticing all those serving on the front lines. Just take a look at the recent pandemic, increased natural disasters, violence, crime and unrest. Let’s be aware of those who come to the aid of others in all these “challenges:” the first responders, the emergency workers, health care providers, the chaplains and counselors helping victims to cope with and heal from tragedy. I believe these front- line, and behind-the-scenes, heroes create “miracles” with their concern and care for others. Such generosity throws a spotlight on the God of Compassion who lovingly tends this world of ours.
I love the idea that Jesus comforted his cousin John, imprisoned unjustly, with the wisdom from Isaiah “Be strong, fear not! Here is your God.” These are good words to ponder this week.
Reflection for the week: The presence of God in our life brings comfort and joy!