Here Comes The Wind Up

   I thought I might share a few of the thoughts that I had while praying the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary this weekend.  As I was meditating on the Third Mystery-The Birth of Jesus, I tried to envision Mary and Joseph having to place baby Jesus in a make-shift crib, a trough which was used to feed the animals.  This had to be so disappointing.  I imagined that St. Joseph, being a skilled carpenter, had probably poured so much love into building a very special crib for the new born Messiah. The crib was probably all set and ready to go. Then out of nowhere, a decree from Rome forces  Joseph and Mary to travel to Bethlehem for a census.  This definitely was not expected and probably upset all their plans.  Sometimes life can really throw a good curve ball. Mary and Joseph, however,  faithfully placed their trust in God and travelled towards Bethlehem.

  This year most of us are struggling with our own curve ball--the coronavirus.  This Thanksgiving, Advent, and Christmas season may be quite different than what we had planned.  Isolated from family and friends and missing our favorite holiday traditions will be difficult.  Like the Holy Family, some of us are struggling with poverty.  Some of us have lost loved ones.  Some of us had to personally battle the disease.  All our lives have been upset in one way or another.  We must, however, faithfully place our trust in God as we prepare for Christ's birth.  The road we travel to Bethlehem may be unfamiliar and difficult this year, but His Light will still continue to guide us.  Now more than ever, we need to embrace Christ this Christmas. 

This year is different, so really put some thought into making this a special Advent.  Stay focused and let the Holy Spirit coach you through this season.  You got this...batter up!

-Susan