During the Advent season we prepare for the celebration of the birth of Jesus almost 2,000 years ago. As we remember this appearance of God among us we are invited to reflect on our own lives. Am I allowing space for God in my life or is God’s appearance in my life crowded out by distractions? How can I allow God’s presence in my life to shine brighter?
Perhaps it might be worthwhile to decide to spend a short period each day (even five minutes) in private reflection:
to slow down, to become aware of my breathing…
to marvel at this gift of breathing…
this gift of life…
this mystery…
and to give thanks for this gift…
I might join with Mary wondering ‘how can this come about?’ when she was invited to become the mother of God…
And she was told ‘nothing is impossible to God’…
Can I open myself to the mystery of God present in my life?…
Can I ask for an increase in my faith like the disciple who said, ‘I believe, Lord, help my unbelief…’
O God, we thank you for the life of Edmund Rice.
He opened his heart to Christ present in those oppressed by poverty and injustice.
May we follow his example of faith and generosity.
Grant us the courage and compassion of Edmund as we seek to live lives of love and service.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.