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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