These readings move us through salvation history: from a system of constant reparation from sin through law
and ritual, to salvation in the incarnational flesh of Jesus with Mary.

The second reading gives us the key, “Jesus takes away the first (law) to establish the second (will).” Jesus was sent to heal and repair our relationship with God. We need to cast ourselves into the ocean of mercy opened by the infant Jesus.

Mary and Elizabeth, holding Jesus and John within them, marvel at the miracle!

Who are we that Jesus should come to us, each in our own way and in our own lives? This is what we wait for – the moments where we can glimpse God at work right where we are.

Mary and Elizabeth, mothers and saints, pray for us as we walk through our lives. Graciously help us to see when Jesus reaches out to touch and save us. May we be as receptive to grace as you were. Amen.

Taken form CCCB Reflection
Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary

“God makes a way of life for people, and we are called to make a way with Him.”

Wherever we find ourselves in this messy world, Advent is a call to prepare for Christ in our lives and the world.
This is an internal and personal journey. At the same time, Christ’s coming is geared toward the salvation of
every soul, so that the mountains of struggle would be lowered and the valleys of suffering and injustice be filled
in for all people.

As we sit in silent wait during Advent, we would do well to consider what we are waiting for in the world and with whom. So much struggle and suffering surround us: pandemic fatigue and division, a nation in desperate need of healing and reconciliation, and refugees waiting in camps to cross our borders in search of a new life. If we are going to celebrate joy with the Psalmist, we need to work with Jesus on the great things he is doing to set captives free, in our hearts and in the world.

God of the great things, prepare us to welcome you again, in our hearts and in our world. May we never give up hope, in the midst of the waiting, that you will come to do great things here and now to set your people free, we pray to the Lord. Amen

Taken from CCCB Reflection
Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary

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https://www.cccrs.com/2343-2/

The days are coming, says the first reading, that God will fulfill His promises. In every generation, God shows up
to do what He has promised: be present to His people, show us love and mercy, teach us His ways, and draw
us to Himself.

The second reading reminds us to live faithfully, to show up for God, and then the Gospel tells us to be ready at all times for Jesus to come again. Every year, in Advent, we prepare our hearts for the second coming by meditating on and celebrating the first coming of the infant Jesus. The time for getting ready for Jesus is always now because God is working out our salvation in the moments that make up the days of our lives. Come, Lord Jesus, make us ready to welcome you here and now.

Saving Jesus, work out your grace and glory in our lives. Prepare us to welcome you here and now so that we will be ever ready for the ways you are coming among us, building your kingdom in our homes, neighbourhoods, communities, and world. Make us ready for you, we pray. Amen

CCCB-Reflection
Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary