In today’s Gospel Our Lord invites us to consider the mysteries of faith with childlike simplicity and wonder, not as an intellectual accomplishment or the fruit of our efforts. The time of Advent is a time of renewing our wonder at how the Lord chose to reestablish communication with us after the Fall: by becoming flesh and dwelling among us, full of grace and truth.
The Christ-child in the manger at Bethlehem speaks more volumes than the most illustrious professor. Contemplating the Son of God, small and weak, has captured the hearts and imaginations of saints throughout the centuries. Contemplating Our Lord’s coming at Christmas and the way in which he is coming reminds us that this is an unmerited blessing and gift from God that many before his coming were longing for.
Advent has barely begun. Let’s renew our sense of silent and simple wonder at the great blessing that will come on Christmas night.
Readings: Isaiah 11:1–10; Psalm 72:1–2, 7–8, 12, 13, 17; Luke 10:21–24.