| Tue Dec 9 | am: 26, 28 pm: 36, 39 | Amos 7:10-17 | Rev 1:9-16 | Matt 22:34-46 |
TODAY ON THE LITURGICAL CALENDAR: The Martyrs of Saragossa, 304 – 18 martyrs were put to death at Saragossa, Spain, by the Romans during the persecutions of Emperor Diocletian. Inspired by the example of St Vincent, a deacon and the first Spanish martyr, this larger group was exiled from the city and massacred by troops as they tried to leave by order of the Governor Dacian.
BIBLICAL MEDITATION – The New Testament lessons starting this week and for the weekdays of Advent are from the Book of Revelation. This book always gets people’s attention, and oftentimes, because there is a lack of basic understanding about the text. In general, our understanding of the prophetic quality of the Book of Revelation is rooted in the very type of writing style which is known as “apocalyptic.” “Apocalypse” is the self-designation given in the Book of Revelation in verse 1; in English, we often call it “revelation.” Nonetheless, both words contain the idea of the “drawing back of a veil”. The veil on what or who, some may ask. Good question. At the very least, we can say that the apocalyptic literature of these early Advent readings seeks to remind us that the focus is on Jesus’ return instead of our life in the here and now. Secondly, in the coming days, we will be reminded that, despite what we tell ourselves, there is an uncertainty that comes with this life. We really don’t know when anything, whatever it is, is going to happen, despite our best planning. The personal revelation for us in Advent is to plan to be sure, but do not plan so much that one loses sight of what this very life is to accomplish.
PRAYER: Almighty, ever-living God, with the confessions of your holy Martyrs. Grant us, we pray, that, just as their glorious passion brought them to your presence, so it may bring us unending inspiration. May their blood, poured out for Christ, strengthen our faith and make us steadfast witnesses to Your truth. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.” Amen.
SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE/ACTIVITY: As the martyrs commemorated today underwent profound sacrifice, today is a day to consider a small sample of that for ourselves. Abstain for an hour from e-mail and converse with a person you haven’t been with in a while on one. Also, avoid internet searching for an afternoon; instead, give some time to wonder about persons and things that have slipped your mind. Don’t use Facebook to contact a friend; contact them directly.
ANCIENT WISDOM/PRESENT GRACE: “So deliver your heart from the cares of this life and pay close attention to my words. What good will it do you to be here, if you are here in body but your heart is worrying about your earthly treasure?” St. Basil from The Hexameron 3.1.
A SONG OF THE HEART, SONG FOR THE SEASON: A Hymn of Martyrsby Liturgical Folk