Preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ

by Gerry Palermo, posted in Advent, Catholic

Joseph’s Angel – In a Dream

Greetings on this the Wednesday of the Third Week of Advent
Readings: Jer 23:5-8; Ps 72:1-2, 12-13, 18-19; Mt 1:18-25

Summary

Wednesday through Saturday gospel readings focus on the announcements as we continue to prepare for Christmas Morning. The Nativity and Incarnation are central divine actions in the Emmanuel event – God with us.

  1. Wednesday – Joseph receives a visitation by an Angel of the Lord. Joseph takes Mary into his home. Do you consult the Lord with your problems?
  2. Thursday – Zechariah an Angel of the Lord appeared to him. Elizabeth gives birth to John the Baptist. Does age define you?
  3. Friday – Mary was visited by an Angel (the angel Gabriel was sent from God). Mary is pregnant with Jesus. Do you have humility?
  4. Saturday – Mary sets out to aid Elizabeth.

Reflection

All this took place to fulfill
what the Lord had said through the prophet:
Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son,
and they shall name him Emmanuel,
which means "God is with us."

Personal Reflection

As we continue our preparation for the arrival of Jesus we traditionally go through a Penance Service, often tonight, Wednesday. In such a service individual and private confessions are made. As we make preparation for Jesus in our own hearts, anew.

  1. Joseph prepared a home for Mary.
  2. Zechariah and Elizabeth prepared the Herald of Jesus, John.
  3. Mary prepared her soul Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.”
  4. Mary aids Elizabeth in mothering John.
  5. To make this complete: We prepare.

Correction and Reflection brings Action

  • Joseph thought he had the right answer (divorce) but was realigned.
  • Zechariah was doubtful (no way!) but relented by vision and silence.

We too need correction and realignment. Let’s make this approaching Holy Night, wholly Holy in our own hearts. Things to do: Confession, prayer, Almsgiving.

Prayer

God of love and mercy, 
help us to follow the example of Mary, 
always ready to do your  will. 
At the message of an angel she welcomed your eternal Son 
and, filled with the light of your Spirit, 
she became the temple of your Word, 
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,  
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/121824.cfm

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry

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