| Tue Dec 16 | am: 45 pm: 47, 48 | Zech 2:1-13 | Rev 3:14-22 | Matt 24:32-44 |
LITURGICAL CALENDAR TODAY: Saint Adelaide of Burgundy, 10th Century
(Patron saint of second marriages and dysfunctional families)
St. Adelaide was married to the Holy Roman Emperor, Otto, as his second wife until she was widowed after 20 years. Her stepson, Otto II, came to power and treated her poorly. He died prematurely, and his infant son Otto III was king, with his mother serving as regent, and his grandmother Adelaide was fundamentally ignored and eventually exiled. Her daughter Theophano died, and Adelaide returned once again to the court to act as regent for her grandchild, using her royal position and power to help the poor, to evangelize, especially among the Slavs, and to build and restore monasteries and churches. When Otto III was old enough, Adelaide retired to the convent of Selta near Cologne, a house she had built. Though she never became a nun, she spent the rest of her days there in prayer.
BIBLICAL MEDITATION: In the lesson from Revelation 3:14-22, we are given a challenging idea as we enter the final days of the Advent journey. As we prepare for the coming of Christ, this passage forces us to examine the condition of our hearts and our readiness to receive Him. The world around us may have a spiritual indifference is about the Season of Advent. It’s a time for many of us to be busy—busy with planning, shopping, and even religious activities—without truly being fervent or engaged. How can one be open to the message of humility when John the Divine reminds us that many of us simply think, “I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing” (v. 17), forgoing the essence of facing our genuine spiritual needs. Advent is the antidote to complacency. In fact, it is a call to stop pretending and acknowledge our true spiritual hunger.
PRAYER: Gracious God and Father, in whose will is our peace: turn our hearts and the hearts of all to yourself that by the power of your Spirit the peace which is founded on righteousness may be established throughout the whole world; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Spiritual Discipline/Activity – Participate in exploring the rich traditions and scriptural foundations of Advent. Take time to review your readiness for the coming of Christ! https://majellan.media/quiz-41-the-beginning-of-advent/
ANCIENT WISDOM/PRESENT GRACE: “ A Lukewarm heart becomes self-absorbed in lazy living, and it stifles the fire of love.– Francis I, Bishop of Rome
SONG OF THE HEART, SONG OF THE SEASON: Wake Up Call – https://youtu.be/o93tkmodIyU?si=9c5lBQYhhEOkdhQW