Gaudete Sunday: Rejoice!

 As we approach the Third Sunday of Advent, Gaudete Sunday, I reflect on the First Reading of

Isaiah 35:1-6a-, 10.  I would especially like to draw on the phrase "Say to those whose hearts are frightened: Be strong, fear not!  Here is your God...  He comes to save you."  

It is so easy to be caught up in our troubles and anxieties.  But now is also the time to cry out to those in need, and to heal our own hearts as we rejoice in our hope: "He comes to save you."

Lord, help me to know that these concerns are valid, but that I must not stop there.  Let me see that You, the healer and savior, will provide.  

When we choose to live in a spirit of gratitude, our courage is gained in Christ and we rejoice.  No suffering is wasted, and our hope is restored!

A Quick Check-In

 How is Advent going for everyone?

I still feel caught up in the marathon of prepping kids for the day, fun songs, making meals, squeezing in some housecleaning, and squeezing in- even more so- some "me time."

I hope you are able to take the time to breathe, as much as I am striving to, and live in the Presence of God.  He is ever with us!  To find peace, and make a resolution to keep that peace of soul, even though life can seem crazy, in many ways.  

Life goes on, and so does our relationship with Our Lord.  Let us continue to keep watch with Our Lady and St. Joseph, as they journey to Bethlehem.

Come, Lord Jesus!  Maranatha!