Memorial of St. Francis Xavier, Priest
We journey into the Advent season Scriptures which give many words of hope and encouragement, and wonderful symbols to delight the child within each of us. Our readings today especially speak to our child-like spirits. Can we recall our own childhood and how our imaginations would let us into the world of pretend, where what was impossible in real life was so real and enjoyable. Children have little difficulty moving between the imaginary word of play and the physical world.
Jesus invites us to re-enter our childlike spirits and have the courage to imagine and work towards the peaceful kin-dom on earth where enemies trust one another and creatures that normally are lion and lamb, predator and prey, can be at peace together because their needs are met. Can we lay to rest the tensions we exacerbate in our relationships, and be at peace with the inner parts of ourselves that have cow, bear and cobra tendencies and find harmony in the heart of God?
We’re not left to do this alone - the Isaiah reading names the gifts of the Spirit given to help us: wisdom, understanding, counsel, strength, knowledge and fear of the Lord (awe). Jesus invites us to have fortitude and recall that a long lineage of ancestors longed to see what we see and to hear what we hear. What we do matters as our descendants and global future depends on our actions today.
Perhaps choosing a daily ritual this Advent season can help us live into the promise that we each be part of bringing Jesus’ presence into today’s world. We’re invited to symbolically put on the garment band of justice, and the belt of faithfulness. Whether it be lighting an Advent candle with your warm morning beverage or meal, taking a moment of reflective silent prayer with the scriptures, a daily walk, or choosing to do something for others each day…these simple rituals can assist us in preparing our hearts - making space in this busy season for God to enter in. May the Spirit of wisdom guide our imaginations and our thirst for justice guide our choices this season! And may we find wonder and awe in what is revealed!
—Sr. Leanne Jablonski, FMI