Greetings on this the Thursday of the Third Week of Advent
Readings: Jgs 13:2-7, 24-25a; Ps 71:3-4a, 5-6ab, 16-17; Lk 1:5-25
Summary
After this time his wife Elizabeth conceived,
and she went into seclusion for five months, saying,
“So has the Lord done for me at a time when he has seen fit
to take away my disgrace before others.”
Reflection
It is good to have alone time with the Lord. Elizabeth wasn’t hiding in shame (actually the opposite -So has the Lord done for me at a time when he has seen fit to take away my disgrace before others). She could have ran around showing off her beautiful belly!
But no, she went into seclusion. To a sheltered or private place. In thanksgiving.
Similarly, Mary, And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart.
Personal Reflection
I must remember to carve out alone time with the Lord. In prayer, of course, but also in friendship. In a common recollection and reflection on his marvelous love. I put a screen shot of an Advent retreat that just passed. Maybe next year? But even now, carve out the time.
Prescription
Please carve out some seclusion. You and the Lord. Marveling the wonderful things he has done for you, me and everyone. So many examples.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/121924.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry