Monday of the Third Week of Advent ‘b’

Mt 1:18-25

The season of Advent is almost over- Christmas is a week from today. It is time to evaluate this sacred time of preparation and to ask yourself - what were you able to accomplish this Advent. And I am not speaking about Christmas decorating, shopping, sending Christmas cards, and cleaning the house. Rather, what were you able to accomplish spiritually during this time? We all get so busy during this time that it is difficult to find time for a prayer, for adoration, for personal preparation, and for listening to God’s word. The Blessed Virgin Mary was able to listen, Saint Joseph was able to listen, and that’s why they were able to fulfill God’s will in their lives. The Angel of the Lord said to Joseph: “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her.” Who knows what would have happened if Joseph was stubborn and had not listened. He must have been very confused, busy, maybe even angry at this whole situation, but in all of that he left room for God. He allowed God to talk to him, he was able to wait and listen. In these last days of Advent try to find some time for a prayer, slow down for a moment and listen to God, let Him talk to you, let Him heal you.