Sunday, December 8th
Scripture
Bar 5: 1-9
Ps 126: 1-6
Phil 1: 4-6, 8-11
Lk 3: 1-6
Reflection
“…for God is leading (you) Israel in joy
by the light of God’s glory,
with God’s mercy and justice for company” Bar 5:9b
Coming home. This phrase evokes belonging, safe haven, restoration, affection, healing, and joy; whether referring to the everyday respite of returning to one’s “happy place,” or to something as momentous as journeying from captivity in a distant land. The prophet and psalmist remind us that it is God who lights our path and leads the way, leveling the road for our smooth passage homeward.
Luke opens the curtain on the baptizer’s ministry by narrating the historical backdrop of the oppressive regime that constrained the life and times of John—and Jesus. Unjust forces impact our age, too; we know them well. Our part is to keep turning toward God and assenting to the relationship becoming more and more mutual. So, we become the conduits— the “way,” the “straight paths”—for God’s saving work to be made manifest. We become home—belonging, safe haven, restoration, affection, healing, joy—for others “with God’s mercy and justice for company.” Loving God, we’re always home sweet home.
Prayer
May my love increase ever more and more, in knowledge and
every kind of perception,
to discern what is of value…for the glory and praise of God. Phil 1
Personal Challenge
Who needs my help to get closer to home?
Sister Mary Jo Curtsinger, CSJ
Chicago, IL
