Notes from the Pastor

The image of a wedding is frequently used throughout the Old Testament to describe God’s relationship with his Chosen People, Israel, such as in our First Reading today (Isaiah 62:1-5). Though Israel was often unfaithful, God always took her back, forgave her, and turned her sadness into joy. As she awaited the coming of the Messiah, Israel’s hopes were expressed in terms of a wedding – a time of great rejoicing and celebration. Like abundant wine, God’s blessings would be poured out on his people in full measure.

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, and the official end to the Church’s observance of the Christmas season. After Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River, he was praying when Heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in the form of a dove; and a voice came from the heavens declaring, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” (Luke 3:22). God the Father favored his Son, Jesus. Rightfully so, since Jesus is the only-begotten Son of God. He is God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, as our Nicene Creed boldly proclaims. If we have any doubt regarding how God felt about his Son or the importance of his mission, the Gospels make it clear for us. The descending of the Holy Spirit upon Jesus in the form of a dove after his baptism was significant for two reasons: (1) it was a clear sign that Jesus was the promised Messiah anointed with the Holy Spirit, and (2) the Holy Spirit gave Jesus strength to fulfill his saving mission.

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Take a moment to look around the church some time. You will see families of all sizes, shapes, and descriptions. Some are the biological variety, with a dad and mom and children of different ages. Some may be blended or adopted, foster families or families with only one parent in the home. Sometimes it is grandparents who open their homes to their grandchildren, or siblings who share an apartment and function as a family. Maybe the time has come for an elderly relative to move into your home.

Christmas is nearly here!. It may be a very busy time for you, but please take the time to read the first two chapters of the Gospel of Luke. You will hear about Elizabeth, her husband Zechariah, the angel Gabriel, Mary and Joseph and the events surrounding the birth of Jesus. If you do this, you will likely be better prepared to celebrate with joy the birth of our Savior this Christmas.

Today, the Third Sunday of Advent, is known as “Gaudete Sunday” and is marked by a rose colored candle on the Advent wreath. The use of the rose-colored candle rather than a purple one symbolizes “the light at the end of the tunnel” so to speak – that Christmas is getting nearer. The Latin word gaudete means “rejoice” and is taken from Philippians 4:4 in which Saint Paul declares: “Rejoice in the Lord always! I say it again, rejoice!” The title “Gaudete Sunday” thus refers to the joy that we feel as Advent is half over and Christmas is drawing near. The season of Advent is one of preparation and anticipation. Today, as the celebration of the Birth of the Lord approaches, we are filled with joy.

Many of us may be living lives that are full but not fulfilling. We may be overwhelmed with responsibilities and worries, consumed by busyness, clutter, or demands being made upon us. What we really long for is peace, wholeness, and simplicity. We are in a holy season that unfortunately has been overrun by consumerism. Many people will be stressing out trying to come up with the perfect gift for the person who already has too much “stuff” to begin with. Indeed, many people feel trapped by possessions, time, and work. The more possessions they have, the less time they have for themselves and others because of the pressure to get even more or “better” possessions. This might be a good time to take a few moments of silence and reflection, and ask ourselves if this is what we really want to keep on doing?

Have you ever wondered about the end of the world? The end of the world is a fascination shared by many people. Predictions about how and when the world might end are commonplace. In today’s Gospel, even Jesus offers a scenario as to how the world might end. He tells his disciples that the sun, moon and stars will change; the seas will roar; and the heavens will be shaken. He warns that when all this happens the end is near, and then cautions his listeners to remain alert and vigilant, steadfast in faith and persistent in strength.

Today’s Solemnity of Christ the King always takes place on the last Sunday in Ordinary Time just before the beginning of Advent and the start of a new liturgical year. In Advent, we prepare for the two comings of Christ - as a baby in Bethlehem over 2000 years ago, and his return as a King in glory at the end of time. Today’s celebration of the Kingship of Jesus prepares us for both comings of the Christ.