First Step Into Season of Hope
When Jesus heard this, he was amazed [at their faith] and said to those following him, “Amen, I say to you, in no one in Israel have I found such faith. (Matthew 8:10)
As we step into this holy season of Advent, a season of Hope, it’s always important to be vigilant of what we're doing and aware of our surroundings; otherwise, we will lose sight of what this season is all about. What we must hope for is NOT what will disappoint us in the end but for God who promises the kingdom of heaven and eternal life as our happiness. This promise will be fulfilled in His Son Jesus Christ, and through Him, with Him, and in Him we are saved! As we are all know that we are so easily distracted from our God. This world makes such demands on us, and those demands are seemingly constant. Committing ourselves and be faithful to the direction of God is hard work, but it’s not impossible. The commitment to the way of the Lord may be made each night before sleep and each morning as the day begins. There's nothing like a good motto, “Gaze upon Him, consider Him, contemplate Him,” said St. Clare of Assisi, to keep you directed toward your goal each day during this Advent. All we need to do is focus our attention on God’s work in our lives. Think it! Speak it! Act it!
❦ What are the demands that distract me from God?
❦ What is their worthiness?
Gracious God, remind me that I am never alone. As I walk amid passing things, teach me by them to love things of heaven and hold fast to what endures.
O Blessed Mother Mary, you are the model of faith, hope, and love, intercede for us all. Hail Mary full of grace...
Peace in Christ,
Father Vincent-Vuong Nguyen
P.S.
Advent Penance Services in the areas:
December 2, Monday, 7:00 PM St. Paul
December 3, Tuesday, 7:00 PM St. Helen
December 4, Wednesday, 7:00 PM St Mary-League City