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Reflection for Sunday 12/18/11

Readings for Today:
1ST Reading: 2 Samuel 7:1-5,8-12,14,16
2ND Reading: Romans 16:25-27
Gospel: Luke 1:26-38

Readings for Next Week:
1ST Reading: Isaiah 9:1-6
2ND Reading: Titus 2:11-14
Gospel: Luke 2:1-14

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION FOR NEXT WEEK’S READINGS

Darkness turns to light, a weighty burden is removed, and war ends, all because of the birth of a child. That’s how Isaiah envisions the coming of the Messiah. Life will be transformed and our deepest desires fulfilled. Our hopes will be placed upon his shoulders and he will bear them forever as he establishes his kingdom of peace over all the earth. That’s a vision worthy of this day when we celebrate God taking on the flesh of mortals; when we realize that grace has appeared among us and filled us with the life of God; when we long, even as we mark his birth, for the return in glory of the one who changed the world for good (pun intended). Paul understands the good news of this day. But he also understands the consequences: God’s grace trains us to reject godless ways and to live devoutly. Even on this day of birth, Paul alludes to Jesus’ death, reminding us he “gave himself” to “deliver” us and “cleanse” us so we can belong to him and live holy and righteous lives (Titus 2:14). Any effort on our part always follows the initiative of God. It’s God who reached out to us, who embarked on a rescue mission by becoming one of us. Angels and shepherds rejoice at that news! Can we do any less than respond with eagerness “to do what is good” (Titus 2:14)?

“The people who walked in darkness / have seen a great light; / upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom / a light has shone” (Isaiah 9:1).

SHARING FAITH:
There was no room for the Holy Family in the inn. Is there room in your life for all those who reach out to you?

LIVING THE LITURGY:
Think of a time in your life when you had to wait for something you really wanted — your first bike, college acceptance, a house of your own, a child. Reflect on the experience of waiting and longing. Was it hard to remain patient and hopeful? How did you feel when the waiting was over?

The Word to Go © 2011 Archdiocese of Chicago: Liturgy Training Publications.