Today's Advent Reflection from Fr. Joseph

Dear John,

In today’s first reading, we hear one of the prophecies about Jesus: “But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days” (Micah 5:2).

In many places in the Old Testament, we can see that the Israelites were looking forward to the One Who was to come, the long-awaited One.

And now that we are a few days away from Christmas, we’re drawing near to the fulfillment of the promise of God through the Prophets.

Jesus, the Son of God, is the Radiant Dawn. He is the Light of the World, which is why Christians always have light and joy, something of eternity already alive within them. Jesus shines His warmth and Light on us every day of our lives. He wants to bring His Light to pierce the darkness that anyone might be experiencing.

Pope St. John Paul II once said, “Let yourself be taken over by the light of Christ and spread His light wherever you go.” As Christians, we need to look to Jesus, our Light, and then radiate this Light to others, especially at Christmastime. As many of us might be caught up in the pre-Christmas busyness – buying, wrapping, baking, entertaining – we need to make the time to reflect on the glory of the Incarnation, the Light of the World entering human history.

Here are today’s Mass readings:

First reading: Micah 5:1-4

Psalm: 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19

Second reading: Hebrews 10:5-10

Gospel: St. Luke 1:39-45

As we are getting closer to the celebration of the Nativity, these programs will inspire you to grow closer to Jesus:

IN CONCERT: CHRISTMAS IN VIENNA

December 19, 1:30 PM

In this annual traditional Christmas concert featuring the Vienna Symphonic Orchestra, a group of international vocalists, including the world-famous Vienna Boys’ Choir, performs Christmas songs from around the world. (90 mins.)

SAVORING OUR FAITH

December 19, 4:30 PM

Christmas is a joyful time filled with spiritual messages and delicious family meals. Fr. Leo Patalinghug helps sate our appetites, while explaining the gift we’re really hungry for this season. (30 mins.)

RECLAIMING THE CAROL

December 22, 9:30 AM

The late Charles Dickens returns to find that A Christmas Carol and the holiday it celebrates has become overshadowed by glitz and commercialism in this touching story about the true meaning of Christmas. (60 minutes)

All times Eastern. Check ewtn.com/tv/schedule for up-to-date listings.

May God bless you throughout the last few days of Advent.
In Christ,

Father Joseph

P.S. If you are inspired by this message, please forward it on to your loved ones. And if you would like to receive a free eBook that includes all of my Advent and Christmas reflections, please visit:ewtn.com/adventreflections.

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