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Friday, December 7, 2018

Reflection for Friday, December 7, 2018

Memorial of Saint Ambrose, Bishop and Doctor of the Church

IS 29:17-24
PS 27:1, 4, 13-14
MT 9:27-31


The readings for today seem have a theme of gratitude. Isaiah speaks of various times and peoples that call for rejoicing – the deaf hearing, tyrants being no more, and not being abandoned. The response highlights God as one’s light and salvation and the gospel proclaiming individuals gaining sight through their faith. This message of positivity and gratitude in relation to faith and the grace of God speaks to what the season of Advent can bring.
In a time when we are awaiting the birth of Christ, we are often reminded of what we are grateful for and all we have to thank God for throughout the past year. But oftentimes the Advent season can be filled with the stress of preparing for the holidays, the arrival of family and friends, finding the perfect gift for a loved one, preparing the perfect meal, and so much more. Perhaps even more important than the preparation is the actual moments of community and caring that surround this season.
At the beginning of Advent, we are reminded by a variety of stories in today’s readings that we have so much to be thankful for, so much to look forward to, and that there is so much of God’s presence in our lives. Taking a moment at the beginning of this season to center oneself in gratitude can shape our outlook on the upcoming weeks. Our faith and trust in the Lord can provide us the patience and strength to finish the final tests of the year, to know that family gatherings will include moments of love and caring, and to be present in all of the upcoming chaos of the season. We are reminded today that God is our light and salvation and such a source of gratitude. Let us find joy in our faith as we enter this season of Advent.



Katlyn Martin is a senior studying political science with a minor in urban poverty. She is a part of the Micah Program and is currently serving as the Student Government Association President.

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