“May the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all…so as to strengthen your hearts, to be blameless in holiness before our God and Father.” These are Saint Paul’s words to the Thessalonians from our second reading this week. He is looking toward the final judgment and making clear what is most important in the eyes of the Lord – love for one another leading to growth in holiness. As we begin the season of Advent, we look forward to both the birth of a tiny child AND that final coming as well. We enter with a sense of anticipation, but also with a warning in the gospel to stay vigilant – to not become drowsy. Advent is a season not only of anticipation, but also of preparation. We prepare our hearts to receive the hope which Christ brings to us.
As Vincentians, our entire ministry is a response to that call to holiness by responding to God’s love for us by loving our neighbors in the same way. We bow humbly before the Lord recognizing the great gift that He is to us and the hope that He brings to all. This is a time for us to prepare our hearts and souls. What changes do I need to make in my life? How do I reflect the hope of Christ to those who I come into contact with? Do I lift my soul to the Lord daily?
Lord Jesus, thank you for the gift of salvation. Help me to stay vigilant. Allow me to walk humbly, serving you at all times. Help me to abound in love for others so as to be blameless in holiness before God. Give me the grace to prepare fully in anticipation of the hope which is to come. We pray all of this in your name. Amen
Deacon Mike