https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/121524.cfm
Are You Ready for Christmas?
If anyone asks us, “Are you ready for Christmas? The first things that come to mind are shopping, baking, trees, and decorations. That is pretty normal, but we are here with Jesus and our faith family because we know that Christmas is more than lights and presents. Don’t mistake me; we need those to express what is inside us: a love for God in His Son, born of Mary.
He comes into our lives personally as He did in His Mother – quietly, peacefully, and humbly, not to scare us, but to shake us. Think of how John the Baptist said Jesus would come with the Holy Spirit and fire. That’s how He came to the Apostles on the first Pentecost. It wasn’t a fire that scared them but freed them. Remember, they were afraid, shaking in their boots, that they might be found out to be disciples of Jesus before He came on them like tongues of fire,
This Holy Fire in the Heart of our Savior burns ever so gently, calling us to repentance and belief in the Gospel, giving us hope and healthy relationships beyond our sins. It’s a gentle fire of justice that gives God and others what is their due, allos to experience a fullness only God can give.
It’s a fire that knows with certainty that our Heavenly Father knows what we need and can only give us what is good when we ask Him. It’s a fire that shares a coat with someone who has none. And it’s a fire in us to not cheat people like the tax collectors in the Gospel who collected more than what was required.
This is how we pick up the baby Jesus who comes to us in people who need food, mercy, justice, and many other things. But God, in His kindness, beckons us only to meet one need at a time, as it is presented to us by the providence of our Heavenly Father. Never be afraid of picking up the baby Jesus in a brother or sister and holding Him close to your heart. I am grateful that hundreds of people are enjoying a Christmas they would not have, but for your big hearts.
Peace everyone.
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
