Have you ever had one of those days when nothing seems to go right? Perhaps you wonder, “Why is this happening to me?” I know I’ve had those days.

Readings for today: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/122124.cfm

By John Morrisette

Today the Psalmist tells us, “…the plan of the LORD stands forever.” Even though we may not understand God’s plan, we are also told, “Blessed the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he has chosen for his own inheritance.”

As we prepare for the coming of our Savior, perhaps the best thing we can do is to acknowledge that whatever is happening, it’s all part of God’s plan. Shouldn’t we just trust that He knows best?

John has been with St. Anne since 2021. He teaches Math courses at the nearby Slam Academy and lectors at our Masses. You can meet him and his wife Donna Monday evenings at the parish Bible Study.

It was a busy day of planning, baking Christmas cookies, and preparing the guest room for family that will soon be visiting at this most joyful time of the year, the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ!

Readings for today: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/122024.cfm

By Hayni Blue

Later that afternoon after a much-needed rest and a pot of hot lemon/ginger tea, I took some time for reflection on today’s reading. Luke 1:38 stood out, Mary said “behold I am the handmaid of the Lord, may it be done to me according to your word”.

Mary set aside her plans when God made clear to her His plan for her life! She may not have understood it or even liked it at that moment. I don’t know and yet she fully trusted and accepted God’s word and plans for her.

Perhaps this Advent season we can take a few moments and come into His presence and linger with Him in prayer, let our mind be open, and allow God to the time and space to speak to us. We know our greatest friend is waiting for us. He’s always present.

Hayni Blue, among other things, leads the St. Monica Society which meets on the first Tuesday of each month to pray for unbelievers and those who have fallen away from their faith. You are welcome to join them any month.