[Salvation]

Sunday, December 17
Third Sunday of Advent

What Should We Do?

In the Gospel account of Luke, the crowds that came out to the desert to hear John the Baptist preach, whatever their background, found themselves united in a common question: “What then should we do?” John’s message of course, was of the imminent coming of the Messiah, and it is understandable that such an expectation aroused a desire to prepare for the momentous event, symbolized in John’s baptism by water. John’s answer to the question “what to do” is both very pragmatic – give to the poor, be upright and honest – and very mysterious. For he speaks of a new baptism by fire and the Holy Spirit, and of a judgment that awaits souls. “His winnowing fan is in his hand to clear the threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.” This modern age seems increasingly disinclines to acknowledge the coming of Jesus Christ as the central event of human history. The question of Jesus Christ cannot be ignored, however. Every person in history takes a stand in some manner before this mystery of the God-man offered for our salvation. The question then is always pertinent – what should we do? Let us renew deeply our faith in Jesus our Savior as Christmas draws near. And pray fervently for a world that needs his presence more than ever.

Reflection based on Luke 3:10-18
Father Donald Haggerty

Loving Father, let me live in front of the Event of your Son so that my life becomes a true witness to the Gospel.
We are starting the last week of Advent -- any thoughts or prayers?

[Salvation]

	Week 3: Monday   When He had come into the temple area, the chief priests and the elders of the people approached Him as He was teaching and said, "By what authority are you doing these things? And who gave you this authority?" (Matthew 21:23) Reflection The question of authority always followed Jesus. Different groups and individuals would try to ask Him difficult questions to trick Him and make Him look stupid in front of the crowds who listened to His teaching. It is clear that Jesus derived His authority from an unshakable inner knowledge of His relationship to the Father. Do we have confidence in our relationship with God so that we can speak the truth as we see it? Or do we expect the Church or some other authority to speak for us? Advent Action Make something (bake a cake, draw a picture, cut out a cartoon) to cheer someone up or as a means of sharing the spirit of the season. Prayer Lord, make me confident anew of Your great gift of faith that I may tell others of Your goodness.