Saturday 20th December

Reflection: Isaiah 7: 10-14

GOD IS WITH US

When we think of God, the image that readily comes to mind is that of a great and awesome being far away in the Heavens who created all things and sustains the universe. Though we know we are his children by virtue of our baptism, we still often do not relate to him as a father; we often find ourselves obeying His commands more out of fear than out of love.

The beautiful message of this season of Christmas is that the same God who is great and mighty, the God who created all things has come to dwell amongst us as man. This is how much He loves us. He has come to live in our midst, to experience the ups and downs of daily life with us and to show us that He is not disconnected from us and unaware of the challenges of our human nature. More importantly, He has not only humbled Himself to be like us, he has raised us up from our fallen state to be like Him… to be truly children of God, bearing the same nature of the Father and heirs to His kingdom.

Dear friend, as you reflect on today’s reading, let the name “Immanuel” bring you joy and hope. Let it remind you that God truly dwells with us. Though Christ has left this world in his human nature, He is ever with us by virtue of His Spirit that dwells in our hearts. He unites Himself to us in the Eucharist, continually pours out His grace upon us so that despite the difficulties we face, we may live the holy life to which He calls us. Remember, God is truly with us!

PRAYER: Thank you dear Lord for stooping down to our level and raising us up to where you are. Please help me to always be conscious that you dwell with us so that I can face life with hope and trust. Amen.

KNOW YOUR FAITH: YOUCAT 79 – Did Jesus have a soul, a mind, and a body just as we do?

Yes. Jesus “worked with human hands, he thought with a human mind. He acted with a human will, and with a human heart he loved” (Second Vatican Council, GS 22, 2).

HIDE A TREASURE: “For our high priest is not someone who is unable to sympathise with our weaknesses, for he was tempted in every way just as we are, yet without sin. Let us, then, with confidence approach the throne of grace, so that we will obtain mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Hebrews 4:15-16 CCB

Readings for Today: Isaiah 7: 10-14; Psalm 24: 1-6; Luke 1: 26-38