January 23
“Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel.” (Which means God is with us). Matthew 1:23
One month ago we were preparing for Christmas. In two days time the celebration was in full swing; all shopping done and mostly wrapped, baking nearly finished, cards and greetings sent and the participation of our religious celebrations just a day or two away. Families gathered together with joy, from the tiniest new member of the family to the great-grandparents. In the twinkling glow of the Christmas tree and window lights, little eyes danced as they talked about what “Santa” brought them. Family members travelled great distances in an effort to join in the get-together, often making great sacrifice to do so. One after the other, each in their own way making sure the traditions that have been a part of their lives continued. The importance of this sacred day is understood. That it is up to us to make Christmas what it is, is understood. That the “reason for the season” needs to be passed down to our children and grandchildren is understood. That we face the battle of commercialism in our effort to bring Jesus story to these little ones is understood. That we have a responsibility to give Christmas the respect this precious day is due is understood. That we are reminded to hold on to this gift as we face our challenges in the days ahead is the hope.
These words in Scripture give us this hope. They give us the strength to carry out our intentions, to carry out faithfully, as we remember that Christmas is not a day, but a way of life. For those days of sacredness that lead up to that moment of blessedness – those days that we so look forward to and treasure - remain with us, bringing us that strength and the hope necessary to face each day of our lives with joy, no matter the circumstances we are in. We are not alone in the challenges before us. We are not alone for Scripture tells us “Emmanuel” is with us; God is with us. He will show us the way. When it comes to Advent and Christmas, all our religious holy days and in all our decisions in life each day, we can count on His presence. In fact, of that we can be certain.
Hail Mary, full of Grace! Mother of our Lord, help us in times of difficulty to remember His constant presence.
Copyright© 2014 Kathleen A. Matson
“Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel.” (Which means God is with us). Matthew 1:23
One month ago we were preparing for Christmas. In two days time the celebration was in full swing; all shopping done and mostly wrapped, baking nearly finished, cards and greetings sent and the participation of our religious celebrations just a day or two away. Families gathered together with joy, from the tiniest new member of the family to the great-grandparents. In the twinkling glow of the Christmas tree and window lights, little eyes danced as they talked about what “Santa” brought them. Family members travelled great distances in an effort to join in the get-together, often making great sacrifice to do so. One after the other, each in their own way making sure the traditions that have been a part of their lives continued. The importance of this sacred day is understood. That it is up to us to make Christmas what it is, is understood. That the “reason for the season” needs to be passed down to our children and grandchildren is understood. That we face the battle of commercialism in our effort to bring Jesus story to these little ones is understood. That we have a responsibility to give Christmas the respect this precious day is due is understood. That we are reminded to hold on to this gift as we face our challenges in the days ahead is the hope.
These words in Scripture give us this hope. They give us the strength to carry out our intentions, to carry out faithfully, as we remember that Christmas is not a day, but a way of life. For those days of sacredness that lead up to that moment of blessedness – those days that we so look forward to and treasure - remain with us, bringing us that strength and the hope necessary to face each day of our lives with joy, no matter the circumstances we are in. We are not alone in the challenges before us. We are not alone for Scripture tells us “Emmanuel” is with us; God is with us. He will show us the way. When it comes to Advent and Christmas, all our religious holy days and in all our decisions in life each day, we can count on His presence. In fact, of that we can be certain.
Hail Mary, full of Grace! Mother of our Lord, help us in times of difficulty to remember His constant presence.
Copyright© 2014 Kathleen A. Matson