Study: Reflect on an experience where you were able to act in a strong and powerful way.  How did you prepare for this work?

Pray:  Do you see an obstacle in your life that is keeping you from the Lord or another person?  Pray for the grace to prepare the way.

Serve: How can you assist someone who is working on a difficult task right now?

Mass Readings – 2nd Sunday of Advent

This week we hear about John the Baptist who embodies the great call of Isaiah the prophet to “prepare the way of the Lord.”  John heralds the coming of the Messiah, urging us to change our ways and prepare our hearts.  Here’s a quick recap:

• 1st Reading – Isaiah comforts the people as God prepares the way.
• Psalm – “Lord, let us see your kindness, and grant us your salvation.”
• 2nd Reading – We patiently await the Lord’s coming.
• Gospel – John the Baptist preaches repentance and prepares the people for Jesus.

The stirring quality of these readings prompts us to respond decisively.  God calls us to action!  God comes with power!  The urgency underscored in these readings today emphasizes that eternal life is at stake; what we do here on earth leads to repercussions in Heaven.

Yet we also know that careful planning frequently precedes bold action.  As we follow Christ we take the time that Advent offers to reflect on how the Lord is speaking to our lives.  We pause in this season because there are critical times in life that demand stillness, silence, reflection and thoughtful attention.  Simply put, we slow down with the Lord so that we are ready to speed up when life switches gears.

What is God doing in our lives today?  What needs preparation?  How is the Lord working in and through our hearts?

Take this week and perform a simple internal spiritual inventory.  Consider this one question – If God called you home tonight, would you be ready?    If the answer is yes, then we live our faith with eagerness and zeal.  If the answer is no, then we take time to prepare the way for the Lord.

Note: This post was first published on December 4, 2017.