Spiritual Thoughts for the week

December 18th

A Deeper Love for Jesus

As we await this Advent the commemoration of the birth of our Lord, we can reflect with others who also waited for Jesus' birth so long ago.

Like Joseph, may our hearts be open to the Lord speaking to us in our dreams.
Like Elizabeth, may we experience the overwhelming joy of the impossible transforming into answered prayer.
Like Zechariah, let us be willing to turn over our doubts to God so that we may see the incredible possibilities that may be borne of faith.
Like John the Baptist, may we be willing to speak the uncomfortable truth when others' redemption and true joy are at stake.
Like the shepherds, let us find God in the midst of our work.
Like the Magi, let us be willing to take a new & different path than we intended in order to protect the sacred and meet the Lord.
Like Mary, may we ponder God's love and mercy. May her Son be birthed anew in our hearts so that we may carry and present Him to others who are longing to hear Good News. We pray:

"Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, truly present in the Holy Eucharist, I consecrate my body and soul to be entirely one with Your Heart being sacrificed at every instant on all the altars of the world and giving praise to the Father, pleading for the coming of His Kingdom. Please receive this humble offering of myself. Use me as You will for the glory of the Father and the salvation of souls. Mary, Most Holy Mother of God, never let me be separated from your Divine Son. Please defend and protect me as your special child. By your prayers, obtain for me a great personal love for your son Jesus Christ, born to you in Bethlehem long ago and longing to be born anew in hearts today. In His Holy Name we pray, Amen."