The Letter Exchange (6): Christ Is Born!

 

(This Advent, we will prepare for the coming of the Christ Child through a series of fictional letters filled with hope, trust, and endless possibilities.)

Dear Elizabeth,

  My heart is bursting with joy! Dear cousin, the wait is finally over! The Messiah has been born! Rejoice in the goodness of the Lord! Sing praises to the Almighty! Jesus was born here in Bethlehem just as the prophet Micah predicted. My son Jesus is here! I can't wait for you, Zachariah, and John to meet him.  He is so beautiful. I wish to share with you the details of his birth.

 My labor began as we entered Bethlehem. Joseph was confident we would easily find a place to stay, but that was not the case.  The city was overcrowded because of the census. No one could make room for us until someone finally offered us the space where they kept the animals.  Joseph was beside himself, thinking his wife would have to give birth to the Messiah in a stable.  He wanted to keep looking, but  I told him we were out of time. I assured Joseph that this must be a part of God's Plan.

  We tried to tidy things up as best as we could, considering my condition. It was not anyone's ideal situation, but the Lord chose to enter into the poverty of this world so He could fill it with good things. As I lay on the stable's floor, I could hear angels singing outside. The light of a bright star hovered over the stable, dispelling the darkness. God's love filled the room as my son left my womb and took his first breath. I placed him on my chest and held him close to keep him warm. Joseph wrapped his arms around both of us, and we wept tears of joy. I will never forget that moment. After some time had passed, I swaddled him in the clothes I had prepared and placed him in a manger.  Joseph and I knelt beside him, adoring the miracle before us, and then joined the angels singing songs of praise.

  I'm not sure how long this adoration of the Lord had lasted when the shepherds appeared, asking to see the Savior.  They, too, had heard the angels singing and were told to search for him. I shared my son with them and watched their hearts and lives transform before me. Deep inside, I realized this is God's plan for me—not only to give birth to the Messiah but to share Him with everyone. When you gently place the beating heart of Jesus in someone's arms, they can never be the same. His love changes them. Their eyes open, and their ears become eager to hear God's voice. Let all who want to encounter the Lord come to me, and I will place Him in their lives forever!  

   Emmanuel is here! "Shout joyfully to the Lord, all you lands, serve the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful song.  Know that the Lord is God, he made us, we belong to him, we are his people, the flock he shepherds.  Enter his gates with thanksgiving, his courts with praise.  Give thanks to him, bless his name, good indeed is the Lord, his mercy endures forever, his faithfulness lasts through every generation."

Love your cousin, 

Mary

-Susan

The Letter Exchange (5)

 

(This Advent, we will prepare for the coming of the Christ Child through a series of fictional letters filled with hope, trust, and endless possibilities.)

Zachariah

  I write to you in haste. We have just received news about the Roman census.  We will be leaving soon for Bethlehem. The thought of this trip worries me greatly. It is such a long journey, and the baby is nearly due. I worry that this trip could put Mary in danger. The thought of Mary going into labor on the side of the road fills me with such anguish. How can I keep both of them safe? I have never delivered a child before. 

  I truly appreciated your words of encouragement. They resonate deeply.  I, too, will lift my eyes towards the mountain and know that the Lord will protect us. Though I feel most unworthy of this role, I will place all my trust in the Lord. He understands my weaknesses and can be my strength. 

  Zachariah, I will pray for your family, and I ask that you pray for mine. The plans of the Lord have not been revealed to others. I am grateful to share my thoughts and fears with you.  I have so many questions and concerns. How could I possibly be a father to the Messiah?  Mary gently reminds me that the Lord is our shepherd and will lead us; we simply need to follow.  

  I am so blessed to have Mary as my wife. She has taught me so much about prayer.  I do my best to imitate her complete trust in the Lord. All my fears fade away when I see her pray.  There is a light that emanates from her that I cannot really describe or understand.  Peace fills the room, and I am moved to fall on my knees and pray alongside her.  

  I must finish preparing now.  I'm sorry my thoughts have been so scattered. We will send word when we have returned to Nazareth. Please pray for us. You know how dangerous these trips can be.  I just keep praying, “Keep us safe, O God, in you I take refuge. “

Joseph

The Letter Exchange (4)

 

(This Advent, we will prepare for the coming of the Christ Child through a series of fictional letters filled with hope, trust, and endless possibilities.)

Shalom Joseph!

  I wish to extend my blessings to you and Mary.  Now that I have recovered the ability to speak, I desperately want to talk with you. I hope circumstances will allow that to be soon.  I'm sure Mary has told you that an angel of the Lord came to me while I was at the altar of the temple.  Though the angel delivered incredible news, I doubted in my heart that it was possible. I have vowed to spend the rest of my life proclaiming His great love and mercy.

 Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, for He keeps all His promises! Mary has told us that an angel of the Lord came to you in a dream and revealed His mighty plans! You and Mary will be the parents of the Most High, and my John will be the prophet to announce his coming! Like me, you must be overwhelmed with joy! I praise the Lord each day for His goodness, but I also feel the heaviness of this responsibility.  I wonder if you feel this as well? Protecting the Messiah and his holy mother may demand a great deal of you. For their sake and ours, you must stay strong in faith and in all your actions.

  I have not been given any instructions, but I trust the Lord will provide me with what is necessary. Joseph, we must place all our trust in the Almighty. Let us fervently pray to the Lord for guidance and wisdom.  "I raise my eyes towards the mountains. From whence shall come my help?  My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth.  He will not allow your foot to slip, or your guardian to sleep." 

  I am offering you my support and service. I have prayed my whole life for this moment to arrive.  I eagerly await the birth of the Messiah and look forward to serving Him with all my heart. Joseph, you will soon hold the Messiah in your arms, and as you do, whisper John's name into His ear.  Ask him to give John all the blessings necessary to accomplish the Lord's plans. Pray that my son will boldly proclaim God's words. Pray that he, too, is given the strength to battle the evil he may encounter and to have a heart loyal to the will of the Almighty.  I am an old man, and I may never see the good works he will perform, so I beg you to pray that John will be pleasing to the Lord.

  Joseph, my family, and I live to serve the Lord. I am filled with happiness knowing that I will soon see the face of my Messiah! Let me know what assistance your most holy family may need.

Respectfully,

Zachariah

-Susan

The Letter Exchange (3)

 

(This Advent, we will prepare for the coming of the Christ Child through a series of fictional letters filled with hope, trust, and endless possibilities.)

My Dear Children,

  Thank you for sharing this special day with me. It brings me such joy to celebrate the incredible grace God has given me. The Almighty has been preparing me for my mission since the moment of my conception. Mighty are the Plans of God! "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways-oracle of the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, my thoughts higher than your thoughts." (Isaiah 55:8-9).

  God has also given each of you special graces to fulfill your mission. We are called to bring Christ to every person on this earth. My Son wants everyone to know and feel His love.  My dear little ones, you have been blessed in many wonderful ways. Be faithful to the Lord.  Do not take any of His blessings for granted. Today, as we gather around the altar, let us pray that the Father's Will be accomplished in each of our lives.

Your loving Mother,

Mary

-Susan

The Letter Exchange (2)

(This Advent, we will prepare for the coming of the Christ Child through a series of fictional letters filled with hope, trust, and endless possibilities.)

 Most Blessed Mary,

  I hope your journey back to Nazareth was not too difficult. Every day, I thank the Almighty for blessing us with your visit.  I am overwhelmed with joy that the Mother of my Lord would come to my side in my time of need. Your visit deeply touched each of us. The day I heard your greeting has changed me forever. Before that day, I just breathed the air around me, and now I breathe in the Lord's Spirit. The long-awaited Messiah is nearly here! Nothing will ever be the same for me.

  My John grows more beautiful each day. As Zachariah and I hold him in our arms, we try to imagine the mighty words he will speak. We wonder how he will prepare the world for the Messiah! It is almost too much to understand, and it is this holy fear that leads us to pray more deeply each day. Zachariah and I recite the psalms with greater fervor, both for ourselves and for John. We know the Lord himself will give him the words to speak, but we feel a strong obligation to do our part as well. Please pray that we do not fail in this task.

  Please let me know how I can assist you. I imagine you are becoming more radiant with each passing day. I am not bold enough to interfere with the Lord's plans, but if He desires, I will place myself before you. I will do all that you command me to do. You humbly served me, who is most undeserving; please allow me to serve you as well.  I miss our moments of prayer we shared.  You have taught my heart to love the Lord in ways beyond my own understanding. My own heart yearns to be present for the birth of your son, My Messiah.

  You and Joseph are in our prayers every day. Has the Almighty revealed His plan to Joseph yet? Joseph is a good and faithful man. He is obedient to God and not the opinion of men.  He will make an excellent father. "Blessed are those who trust in the Lord, the Lord will be their trust."

I look forward to all of us being together again!

May God's peace shine through you,

Elizabeth

-Susan

The Letter Exchange

   

(This Advent, we will prepare for the coming of the Christ Child through a series of fictional letters filled with hope, trust, and endless possibilities.)

My Dearest Elizabeth,

  I know I have frightened you today.  I am mute because of my own disbelief.  In my heart, I doubted God's goodness. He has prepared something wonderful for our future, and in a moment of weakness, I faltered. Do not worry, though, and keep your faith steady and joyful. Today, the Angel Gabriel appeared on the right side of the altar as I burned the incense!

  Elizabeth, I have never experienced an angel of the Lord appearing before me. I was overwhelmed with fear and awe. He came to deliver a special message to us. The angel Gabriel said, "Do not be afraid, Zachariah,  for your prayer is heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall name him John.  And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth; for he will be great before the Lord, and he shall drink no wine nor strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother's womb."

  Elizabeth, you will bear me a son! Let us put aside our thoughts about our age and instead rejoice in the Lord's mercy and kindness!  We will be parents, and our son will do mighty deeds for the Lord!  Gabriel said, "He will turn many of the sons of Israel to the Lord their God, and he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah." My dearest wife, our son will be a great prophet who will prepare the people for the Lord! Our son will prepare the way for the Messiah!

  My heart is overflowing with happiness! Though you will not hear the sound of my voice for now, let us unite our hearts in prayer. We must not delay; we must prepare immediately.  Let us dedicate ourselves entirely to His plan of salvation.  Let us render our hearts to the Lord,  "for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy." The day of the Lord is coming; let us be well prepared.  Let us pray that the Lord guides us with His gentle love. 

Forever yours,

Zachariah

Picked Fron The Fields-An Advent Story, The Conclusion

 The shepherds made many trips to visit Mary, Joseph, and Jesus. The moment Abigail’s feet entered the cave, she felt as if she had left the world behind. All her worries and fears vanished as she experienced overwhelming love. She cherished every moment sitting next to Mary and Jesus, her heart filled with awe, reverence, and love.  

  She had never met anyone like Mary before.  She was the mother of the Messiah, but was so humble and caring. Each time they visited, Mary would share scripture with Nathan.  Her knowledge of God was not only impressive but deeply personal. While listening to Mary, you couldn’t help but love God.   And when Mary prayed with Jesus in her arms, it was incredible! It was not the words she spoke but the Presence Abigail felt. It was as if she was experiencing the exchange of love between Mary and the Lord. It was powerful, and Abigail’s heart inflamed with pure love, a love that would forever change her faith.

  Then, one day, Joseph announced to Levi that it was time for them to leave. They were going to the Temple for the purification rites and to present Jesus to the Lord according to the Law. Afterward, Joseph and Mary planned to return to their home in Nazareth.  Abigail knew this day would come, but that did not lessen the pain she was feeling. Nathan cried the tears they were all feeling, his sobs echoing the collective sorrow.  As they said their final goodbyes, Mary asked Nathan to continue learning the scriptures and praying as she had taught him.  Nathan agreed, saying, “Could I just have one more chance to pray next to baby Jesus before you leave?”  Mary smiled and allowed Nathan to kneel next to Jesus one last time, the emotional weight of the moment palpable in the air.

   Levi, Abigail, and Nathan walked home a little slower that day. Their lives were forever changed.  They may still look like poor shepherds but never see themselves as poor again.  They knew they were blessed and loved by God.  They knew the Messiah would soon change the world.  As they walked, Nathan said, “Mom, when I was praying with Jesus, he told me I didn’t need to be sad.  Jesus told me he was coming back one day.  Jesus told me to keep praying and be prepared for that day.  He will call out my name, and I should drop what I’m doing and follow him. I told him I’ll be ready.”

-Susan   

Picked From The Fields-An Advent Story (week 4)

 

  After they prayed, everyone remained silent and marveled at the baby. He was beautiful. He was the Messiah. Abigail tried to imagine what incredible things he would do in his life. What would the Messiah do? Abigail wondered why she had never pondered that idea before. She knew the Messiah would come one day, but she never imagined it being in her lifetime, and she never even dreamed of meeting him. Suddenly, the silence was broken.

  “So why are you here?  Why is Jesus sleeping in a manger?” Nathan inquired.

  “We are here for the census,” Joseph answered.

  “No, I mean…are you poor like us?”

  “Nathan,” Levy said sharply.  “I’m sorry for my son’s questions.”

  Mary looked at Joseph and then smiled. “My heart is full of love. I feel very blessed. I trust the Lord will give us all we need,” Mary answered.

  “So if your heart is full of love, you’re not poor?” asked Nathan. “How do you fill your heart with love?’

  “I give my heart to God daily, and He fills it up with His love. God’s love is my treasure. It is the only treasure I desire. And now He has blessed me with Jesus, and my heart is so happy it is overflowing.”

  Nathan smiled. “My heart feels happy being here too!  I guess I’m not poor, either.”  Mary smiled sweetly at Nathan, and then a small yawn escaped her.

  “We are sorry.  You must be exhausted.  We should let you get some rest,” Abigail suggested.  As Abigail stood up, she remembered she had left her basket with their dinner outside the entrance.  “Have you any food here? I have some bread in my basket. It is not much.  Please allow us the honor to leave you this small present.  You will need substance to feed this little one.”

  Joseph smiled and agreed.  “Mary, you will need to eat. We were so worried about finding a place for Mary to deliver that we did not have a chance to acquire food. Thank you for your generosity.”

  “We could return tomorrow with another meal if you allowed us,” replied Levi.

  “That would be greatly appreciated.  I would hate to leave Mary alone so soon after giving birth,” answered Joseph.

  The shepherds then left the cave, their hearts filled with joy. They each discussed what they could bring tomorrow. As they walked, they tried to comprehend what had occurred.  The Messiah had been born, and they were the first to visit him.! They were invited to come back again! “We prayed with the Messiah!” they exclaimed. Each tried to describe how it felt to be near the baby.

  As Abigail lay down to sleep that night, she played all the details of the night that she could remember.  She didn’t want to forget a single moment. It was all too incredible. Before drifting off to sleep, Abigail allowed herself to ponder one last question.  “Lord, why did you choose us? Are we really that important to you?” Abigail wasn’t sure if she had imagined it, dreamed it, or heard the Word “Yes!”.

-Susan

Picked From The Fields-An Advent Story (Week 3)

 

    As the shepherds neared Bethlehem, the star became even brighter.  Levi looked around and couldn't believe there were no crowds of people traveling to see the Messiah. Where was everyone?  Did they misunderstand the angels? Were they too late?  Despite these doubts, the shepherds were determined to find the newborn King. They stopped outside the town to discuss their next move.

 "Dad, Dad! Look over there. I can see a cave; the star is right over it!" Nathan announced.

 "Nathan, I do not think the Messiah would be born in a cave," Levi answered.

 "Dad, the angel said, 'And this will be the sign you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.' I believe it, Dad. We have to go over there!" Nathan's voice was filled with conviction, his belief in the angel's message unwavering. 

 Levi returned his attention to the other shepherds until he heard Abigail scream, "Nathan, come back here!" Nathan ran as fast as his legs would carry him towards the cave. Levi took off after his son, with Abigail close behind.  It was unlike Nathan to disobey. Levi and Abigail caught up to Nathan just outside the cave's entrance.

 Levi grabbed hold of Nathan's arm and pulled Nathan to a stop. "Dad, he's in there.  I can feel him."  Levi was too out of breath to respond.  He was about to lose his anger when a man emerged from the cave.

 "Hello, can I help you?" the man asked with concern.  "We were given permission to stay here.  I spoke with the owner myself."

 Nathan shouted, "We are here to see the Messiah!  The angels said he would be lying in a manger.  And the star is right over us, and," Nathan paused for a moment, "Is he here?  Do you know where he is?"

 The man looked relieved and said, "Please give me a minute to answer you."  He returned inside for a few minutes and then reappeared. "My name is Joseph.  My wife and son are inside. Jesus was just born tonight. My wife, Mary, said I should invite you in. Please come inside."

 With her warm and welcoming smile, Mary knelt next to the manger, her gentle presence filling the cave with a sense of peace and comfort.

 Nathan's eyes lit up as he quietly announced, "It's him!  The baby the angels told us about!" His voice was filled with awe and reverence, acknowledging the Divine Presence before him.

 Mary smiled at Nathan and reached out her arm to pull him closer.  "Tell me, Nathan, do angels talk to you often?"

 "No.  This was the first time!  It was exciting and scary at the same time.  I remember everything they said.  There were lots of them.  And they sang, 'Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.' My Mom and Dad heard them, too!  So did the other shepherds. We all came right away."  Nathan stopped to look at the baby lying in the manger.  "He looks like a regular baby, but I feel different around him.  I feel warm inside, and my heart feels like it's growing inside me."  Nathan looked at Mary to see if she understood.

 "Nathan, if an angel has revealed a message from the Lord, I would follow their instructions, too. Trusting the Lord and his desires shows great faith on your part. The Lord must find you very pleasing."

 "I didn't even know the Lord knew who I was.  I'm not very smart.  I don't get to the synagogue very much."

 Abigail and Levi's faces were flushed with shame.  "We should probably try to go more often," Levi said.

 "We are honored to share Jesus with you.  Nathan, would you like to join me in prayer?"  Mary cradled baby Jesus in her arms and sat close to Nathan.

 Nathan nervously looked at his parents and then at Mary holding Jesus.  "I don't really know very many prayers," Nathan admitted.

 Mary smiled at Nathan and said, "I would happily teach you one." Nathan beamed as he listened to Mary praise God. Mary encouraged him to repeat her words as she prayed. Abigail and Levi listened closely, too. This young woman was remarkable. They had never heard someone pray so openly and honestly. They could feel God's love. 

  As they continued to pray, Abigail could hear the other shepherds fall to their knees behind her. Together, they prayed as one. This moment was more glorious than the angels singing.  Imagine being picked out of the fields to pray with the newborn Messiah and his mother. They were nobody, but they were the most blessed on earth at this moment!

-Susan

Picked From The Fields-An Advent Story (Week 2)

 

  Levi and Abigail stood in awe, their hearts racing, trying to comprehend the extraordinary event unfolding.  Angels singing?  The Messiah has been born?  It couldn't be a figment of their imagination. Such sights and sounds were not of this earth. They not only saw and heard the angels, but they also felt their words.  The angelic words were warm, soft, and filled with wonder. They felt the angel's love flowing into their bodies, a powerful and beautiful sensation.

 "Come on, let's go!" shouted Nathan.

 Abigail and Levi looked at their son and then at one another.  "Go where?" asked Levi.

 "The angels said we must go to Bethlehem and find this baby!" Nathan's excitement was palpable, and his youthful energy radiated as he jumped up and down, waiting for his parents' feet to move.

 Abigail smiled at her son and said, "Yes!  We must go! God has sent angels to invite us! Blessed be God Most High, who would look at his lowly servants and bless us with a heavenly message."

 "Quickly help me get the sheep secured." Levi directed. It almost took no effort to get the sheep back into their pen. Levi could hear the other shepherds doing the same. The men were shouting his name as he closed the gate.

 "Levi, you saw it too, right?  The angels in the sky singing about the Messiah!" asked the shepherds.  "That was the most amazing thing I have ever seen!" 

 Levi ran over to them and declared, "Yes!  We saw it, too! We have to go find this baby!  The Messiah has finally come! The prayers of our ancestors have been answered! We must leave immediately!" His voice was filled with determination and urgency.

 The small group of shepherds, Abigail and Nathan, began walking quickly toward Bethlehem, their hearts filled with excitement and anticipation. The shepherds tried remembering what they had learned about the coming Messiah in their youth.  Since they were not the most learned, they concluded that the angels must be telling everyone and they could learn more from those willing to speak to them.

 Abigail knew not to interfere with the men's conversation.  She heard bits and pieces but focused her attention on Nathan's questions.  She had never seen Nathan so excited.  It was heartwarming to see things from Nathan's innocent and excited perspective. He had only been to Bethlehem a few times.  He did not understand the ways of the world.  It never even crossed his mind that shepherds were looked down on by others. She was worried he would experience the unfriendly stares she had become accustomed to receiving.  Abigail knew her place.  She would stand in the back or the outskirts.  She imagined that just being near the Messiah and his royal family would be more than she ever deserved.

 Nathan had remembered every word the angels had spoken, and he did his very best to sing their hymn of praise. "Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests." Abigail smiled as he sang.  What a glorious night! And the best part was about to come!

 "Dad, are we almost there?" yelled Nathan.

 "We are very close to Bethlehem.  Do you see how bright that star is over there?" Levi pointed with his hand. "We think that's where we will find the newborn Messiah! I'm sure there will be crowds of people, so I need you to stay very close to your mother and me."

 "I will, Dad!  I'm so excited!" answered Nathan.

(to be continued....)

-Susan

 

Adding a Little Gloss to Advent (Part 3 of 3)

 

Lilly sat down at her usual table in the cafeteria for lunch. Most of her friends were already there talking about something (or probably someone ) in hushed voices. Lilly set down her pizza and pop before leaning into the conversation.

 "Did you even see what she was wearing today?" Emily said.

 Commonly, Lilly would have immediately asked who they were talking about, but she decided to eat her pizza and not join the conversation. Her friends continued to give their unpleasant opinions about the original person and then moved on to others. Lilly had managed to eat her entire lunch before the conversation was turned to her.

 "Lilly, why are you being so quiet? By the way, I noticed your new lip gloss today. That color is good on you, " said Eva.

 Olivia, Lilly's best friend, answered immediately. "Lilly's grandma bought her the new Advent lip gloss set we were all talking about last week, but Lilly had to promise not to talk crap about people while she was wearing it."

 "You are so lucky your Grandma bought that for you. By the time I got to the store, they were sold out. Anyways, who cares about what you promised your Grandma? It's not like she can hear our conversations. It's not like she is God," replied Eva. 

 "I know," began Lilly, "But that's the point. I made a promise, and I'll know I didn't keep it, and God will, too."

 "Lilly, are you serious right now? Nobody keeps their promises anymore if they are not going to get caught. What are you so worried about, girl?" Emily asked.

 "Because when I pray tonight, I'm going to feel embarrassed because I didn't keep my word," Lilly said, feeling stupid. Was she really talking about praying in front of everyone at the table?

 "Do you really think God cares if you kept a promise to your Grandma? Look at what's going on in the world. I think God has much bigger problems, " Eva answered.

 Lilly suddenly felt an inner urge to speak. "Ya, I'm sure He does, but I also think he cares about me and what's going on in my life. What am I supposed to say, 'Hey God, you know how you made all those people in my school, and you love them all. Well, I don't, and I'm just going to make fun of them because I can't help myself?' That sounds like a dumb prayer to me." 

 Olivia tried to come to her friend's defense. "That does sound dumb when you say it out loud."

 Eva looked at Lilly. "Do you really still pray every night?" 

 Lilly replied, "Yes, of course I do. Doesn't everyone?"

 "Not me," Regan replied. "I don't have the time."

 Olivia started laughing. "The girl who knows every person's TikTok post doesn't have time. I wonder why? Ok, let's help Lilly out. How about we agree not to talk about anyone at the lunch table until after Christmas. Agree? There are plenty of other things we could be talking about."

  Lilly smiled at Olivia. "Thanks." Olivia smiled back before changing the subject to her Christmas list.

A few days before Christmas, Grandma stopped by the house to make Christmas cookies. "You look pretty today. Lilly." Grandma said when Lilly walked into the kitchen.

 "Thanks, Grandma. This is the best color lip gloss so far."

 "I think it's more than just your lip gloss," Grandma said with a smile.

 "Hey, Grandma, I've been trying really hard to keep your promise about being more kind. But I have to admit that it has been a lot harder than I thought it would be. I've screwed up a few times."

 Grandma laughed, "Well, haven't we all. God doesn't expect us to be perfect but is pleased when we try."

 "Well, I have been trying Grandma. I even got my friends to try, too. I never would have guessed that lip gloss would make me brave enough to talk about God with my friends." Lilly shook her head, "It probably wasn't the lip gloss at all. I think it had more to do with visiting the Blessed Sacrament and praying. I feel closer to God."

 Grandma smiled, and her eyes glistened with held-back tears. "From your lips to my heart, Lilly. You have definitely grown more beautiful this Advent."

-Susan

Adding A Little Gloss to Advent (Chapter 2 of 3)

 

   

  Lilly jumped into her Grandma's car and headed for the church. As they pulled into the parking lot, Lilly reached into her pocket. "Oh no, I think my rosary fell out of my pocket. It's not here," confessed Lilly.

 "Would you like to use mine?" Grandma offered.

 "What are you going to use then?" Lilly wondered.

 "Oh, I don't always pray the Rosary before the Blessed Sacrament. Sometimes, I talk to Jesus from my heart; sometimes, I sit in His Presence and try to listen. I like just being near to Him."

 "Really? I always thought you had to say a specific prayer. Hmm, maybe I'll talk to Him from my heart today," Lilly replied as she and Grandma walked into the small chapel. Lilly sat down and looked around. She was a little surprised there weren't more people there. Lilly turned her focus to the monstrance as she allowed her heart to take over. Then she closed her eyes and became conscious of each breath she took. As she breathed in, she silently prayed, "Jesus, I believe you are here with me."

 After a few minutes, Lilly opened her eyes and noticed two pictures behind the altar. One picture was the image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and the other was Mary holding Jesus in her arms. Lilly remembered her Grandma's words from yesterday. "Ask Mary what she did to prepare for the coming of Jesus."

 For a few minutes, Lilly just wondered. "Mary, did you spend much time just wondering what it would be like to hold God in your arms? Could you feel Baby Jesus' heart beating inside you? What would it be like to be that close to God? What would it be like to know God depended on you to bring Jesus to the world?"

 Lilly closed her eyes and wondered for a while. Interiorly, she felt her questions being redirected toward herself. "What does it feel like to be so close to Me, Lilly? Do you not feel me?"

"Of course I do. I just..." Lilly didn't finish her sentence.

 "You just what?" the Voice questioned.

 "How come it's so easy for me to forget you are always with me?"

 "That's a good question. I never leave you, you know." the Voice answered.

 "If you aren't the one who leaves, then it's because I leave. A tear slid down Lilly's cheek. "Why is it so easy for me to forget about you? " Lilly sat with her own question for a few minutes, feeling uncomfortable and foolish. "I don't have any good answers for that one. I'm sorry. I guess it's good that you asked Mary to bring you into the world, not me," Lilly said, staring straight at the monstrance.

 "Lilly, Mary's role was very different, but I have asked you to bring me into the world. Bring me into your world and the people you encounter every day. Speak my words. Be my Voice."

 As Lilly brought her folded hand close to her face, she felt the gloss of her new lipstick touch her hands. She looked at the glossy sheen on her hand. Lilly remembered the promise she had made to her Grandma. "Ok Jesus, my lips are yours," Lilly promised as a small smile spread.

(To be continued...)

-Susan

Adding a Little Gloss To Advent (Chapter 1 of 3)

 

  Lilly and her Grandma were pulling into the outdoor mall's parking lot. "Grandma, can we start at the big department store first? There is an Advent calendar I really want to get. I want to see if it's on sale."

 "Oh, I would happily buy that for you, Lilly. Why don't you show me which one."

 "Grandma, you are the best!" Lilly responded. Lilly led Grandma through the cosmetic section. "Oh my gosh," Lilly exclaimed, "They have it!" Lilly excitedly handed the gift box to her Grandma.

 Grandma look very confused, "Lilly, I don't understand. "What does this set of lip gloss have to do with Advent?"

 "Grandma, look, there are 15 different shades of lip gloss. I could wear a different one every day up until Christmas. Then, I will know my favorite on Christmas day, and I'll be ready!"

 "Lilly, I don't mean to hurt your feelings, but I think you are completely missing the point of Advent. Advent is about preparing yourself for the coming of Jesus."

 "Well, I could wear the lipgloss when I go to church on Sunday." Lilly looked at her Grandma's expression and set the gift box down. " I guess you don't want to buy it for me anymore."

 "Let me think about it. Lilly. How about you help me pick Christmas presents for the family first?"

 "Sure, that's fine," Lilly said, dripping with disappointment.

 An hour and a half later, Lilly and her Grandma found an empty table at the food court and sat down to refuel. "You know Lilly," Grandma began, "I've been thinking about that lip gloss set. At first, I thought it had nothing to do with Advent, but maybe I was wrong."

 "Really?" Lilly said.

 "I'll buy you that set on two conditions. First, I want you to visit the Blessed Sacrament with me tomorrow. I'm going to bring my Rosary. Let's ask Mary what she did to prepare for the coming of Jesus. You know she was about the same age as you. Second, you must promise me that you will only speak kind words when wearing your lip gloss. That may help get both your heart and lips to shine through Advent. What do you think? Do we have a deal?"

 "Yes!" Lilly answered. Lilly smiled at her Grandma, thinking how easy this would be. Grandma smiled back, wondering if she was asking too much from her granddaughter.

(to be continued...)

The Invitation of Joy

 

  In the silence, you quiet your mind as your hand reaches into your sweater pocket. Instantly, your fingers wrap themselves around the beads which connect you with heaven. The Joyful Mysteries are even more beautiful during Advent. Love, trust, and joy weave into your heart and thoughts as you meditate on those who were the first to adore and embrace Jesus. As you finish the last mystery, a Christmas song begins to play in your mind, and you can't resist singing to Mary, "Could I hold the baby? Will He smile at me?" Inwardly, you see Mary smile as she nods and says, "Yes."

 You carry Mary's promise as you enter the Church for Mass. Then, as the priest holds up the host for consecration, you hear Mary's voice again, "Yes. It's your turn to hold my precious child."

 As you walk towards the altar, your heart beats with joy. Reverently, you bow before Christ and then hold out your hand. It's your turn to hold the baby. But not just in your hands but with every cell in your body. Joy circulates through you. You know that at this moment, you are blessed beyond measure, beyond anything you deserve. Nothing in this world compares to God's love. 

 -Susan

The Invitation: Prepare

 

 The sun set hours ago. As you drive closer to your house, the number of homes decorated for Christmas appears to grow daily. Finally, your car automatically pulls into your own driveway. Exhausted, you step out with your arms heavy with bags. You manage only a few steps when a burst of white light appears above the housetops. Instantly you recognize this star. It is the star of Bethlehem. The star of the newborn King.

 Quickly, you place your bags inside and fall to your knees. You take a deep breath in. Before you exhale, you let the warmth of God's Presence overflow from your heart, expanding the volume of your lungs with oxygenated joy. Then, in the silence of this moment, the call comes.

 "And this will be a sign for you: you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger."

 You reply, "Lord let me see what you have made known to me."

 Inwardly you hear, "Prepare yourself, and you shall see the glory of the Lord. On bended knee is a good place to start."

-Susan

(The Invitation is based on the Gospel of Luke.)

The Invitation

 

 Briskly, you walk into church and sit in your usual seat. Then, as you wait for Mass to begin, you dismiss your thoughts of the world and open your heart to God's Word. Now, as the people were sitting in their pews, keeping watch over their thoughts,  an angel of the Lord appeared to them. The angel said to all, "Do not be afraid to open your hearts to God. Today I bring you good news of great joy! The celebration of the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ, will come to this place on December 25th. All are invited to come!"

 Suddenly there was a multitude of angels singing and praising God! "Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests." Together the congregation replies, "Glory to God in the highest..." Your heart soars high with love!

 As Mass continues, you thank God for your ears. You are blessed to hear the Truth of God's Word. Give thanks that you can hear angels singing and announcing the birth of the Lord. Thank God for giving your eyes that will perceive the star of Bethlehem. Your journey begins today! Prepare for the coming of the Lord!  

-Susan

(The Invitation is based on the Gospel of Luke.)

Advent, The Power Of The Holy Spirit: Week 4

 

  Actions speak louder than words. The gospels clearly demonstrate St. Joseph as a man who actively responds to God's Plan. While sleeping,
God sends a message through His angel to reveal to St Joseph that Mary has conceived through the power of the Holy Spirit. Upon, waking Joseph dismisses his own plan and obeys God by bringing Mary into his home. Pope Benedict XVI helps us to understand the importance of the Holy Spirit.  "It is through the Holy Spirit who helps us in our incapacity, who illuminates our minds and warms our hearts, guiding us to turn to God."

 Joseph must have already been very familiar with the workings of the Holy Spirit and attuned to listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit. When Joseph learns the Holy Spirit came upon Mary, all doubt is eliminated from Joseph's mind. The Catechism teaches that "Knowledge of faith is possible only in the Holy Spirit: to be in touch with Christ, we must first have been touched by the Holy Spirit. He comes to meet us and kindle faith in us." (CCC683) Joseph believes and trusts in the power of the Holy Spirit. Illuminated by the Holy Spirit, Joseph understands that all things are possible with God.  Joseph responds to God's plan for salvation by bringing Mary into his home and allowing God's Plans to unfold. (It is interesting that Jesus' life begins and ends with a request for Mary to be brought into a disciple's home.)

 Spend these next few days before Christmas with St. Joseph. Reflect on listening and trusting the Holy Spirit and responding without doubts. St. Joseph was instrumental in bringing the Christ child safely into our midst. Ask St. Joseph to guide us as we share the Christ child with others.  

-Susan

Advent, The Power of the Holy Spirit: Week 3

 

 At the sound of Mary's voice, Elizabeth's son, John, leaps for joy, and Elizabeth receives the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit enlightens both Elizabeth and John to recognize that Mary is pregnant with the long-awaited Messiah. It is important to note that the Holy Spirit reveals Jesus to Elizabeth and infuses Elizabeth with the knowledge of Mary being most blessed among all women. Elizabeth is both filled with joy and humbled by Mary's visit as she wonders, "And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?" (Luke 1:40)

 Elizabeth demonstrates that we should all respond to Mary with joy and humility. When we cry out to Mary, she is eager to help us. Mary, however, doesn't come alone. When Mary comes to our aid, she also brings the Holy Spirit and her son, Jesus. Wherever Jesus and the Holy Spirit are present, we also encounter God the Father. In His generosity and mercy, God allows Mary to act as a powerful magnet. When we cry out to Mary, Mary sets out in haste to bring the Holy Trinity into our lives! 

 This week joyfully embrace Mary! Let us cry out to the world that the Mother of our Lord has entered our homes as well. Let us pray with Mary as she eagerly awaits the birth of her son. Let us ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten us to the Presence of Jesus in our family, friends, and all that we encounter. I often imagine what it might have been like to pray to God in the same room with Mary and Elizabeth and their unborn sons. I am both delighted and humbled by this thought.   

-Susan

Advent, The Power of the Holy Spirit: Week 2

"Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall name him John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great in the sight of [the] Lord. He will drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from his mother’s womb." (Luke1:13-15)

 Imagine an angel of the Lord announcing that your son will be filled with the Holy Spirit before he is even born!  This message was delivered to Zechariah before his son, John, was conceived and was fulfilled when Mary entered Zechariah's house. The moment John heard Mary's voice, he leaped for joy inside his mother's womb. 

 Although the Holy Spirit cannot be seen, He stirs the soul to experience the incredible joy and love of the Lord! The Holy Spirit helps us to recognize His Presence in our lives. John's heart is already beating for God even while he is still a fetus. Over time the Holy Spirit will increase John's understanding of God and prepare him for his mission. John will be the great prophet who prepares the world to repent from their sins so that their hearts will be open to receive Jesus.

 This week ask Mary to enter your house. Allow the Holy Spirit to fill you with joy when she greets you! Then, like John, announce to the world that Jesus is coming. Sing religious Christmas songs. Ask someone to go to the Sacrament of Reconciliation with you. Share the Nativity story with someone in your life. The world still needs to have its hearts open to receive Jesus. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you be the prophet you were born to be.

-Susan

 

Advent, The Power of The Holy Spirit: Week 1

 

   Today we begin another Advent season! Like the Wise Men, we begin a journey to discover the newborn King! As I venture down this path, I have decided to let my compass point in the direction of the Holy Spirit. Each week I want to reflect on how the Holy Spirit prepared the world for the birth of Jesus.

  The gifts of the Holy Spirit help us to become holy. The Holy Spirit gives us the help we need to fulfill God's desired mission for each of us. Going it alone would be too hard. The Holy Spirit opens our eyes to God's vision of the world and how we should act towards others and God himself. The Holy Spirit gives us the courage to make difficult decisions and act upon them.

 This week I would like to focus on the Holy Spirit's actions within Mary. The Angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will become the mother of Jesus. When Mary asks how this will occur, the angel says, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore, the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God." (Luke 1:35). The Holy Spirit fills Mary completely, and she replies, "May it be done to me according to your word."(Luke 1:38). Enlightened with the gifts of Wisdom, Knowledge, and Courage, she perceives this message of truth to be God's Plan and says, "Yes!" 

 Before Jesus was crucified, He told Pilate, "For this I was born and for this I came into the world to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice." (John 18:37). Jesus was conceived in the womb of a virgin because Mary was devoted to God and recognized His voice. Mary did not listen to the voice of fear or doubt but trusted God without even knowing all the details. The Holy Spirit helped her understand that all things were possible with God.

 This week I will reflect on seeing what God thinks is possible in my life even though I may not see it. I will ask the Holy Spirit to amplify the truths of the Gospels to me so that I may hear the voice of God in my life. The child Jesus will soon be born, I do not want to be deaf to His cries.

-Susan