4th Sunday of Advent

COMING CLOSER TO CHRIST:
Today’s first reading ends with these powerful words: “He shall be peace.” Isn’t that interesting? It doesn’t say that the Savior will bring peace, but that He is peace. Why is He peace? Because peace means wholeness. If we are not OK with God, then we can’t be at peace with ourselves or with others. Blessed Teresa of Calcutta used to say: “I’m not ok, and you’re not ok, and that’s why Jesus came.” In Jesus, in the sacraments that make him present here today, we come to be at peace with God. And then we start to see others with the eyes of Christ. So Christ himself is Peace!

SERVING OTHERS:
Christmas time is not only the most wonderful time of year, but also for a portion of our society a season of higher reported depression for those who feel alone, forgotten and unwanted. Christmas tidings are a long-standing tradition to greet strangers and remind them they are loved, to bring God’s peace to others. Invest a minute each day this week in a stranger to share God’s love & peace!