Daily Inspiration

Jesus said to his disciples: “As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. In those days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day that Noah entered the ark. They did not know until the flood came and carried them all away. So will it be also at the coming of the Son of Man. Two men will be out in the field; one will be taken, and one will be left. Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken, and one will be left. Therefore, stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come. Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour of night when the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and not let his house be broken into. So too, you also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.” -Matthew 24:37-44

Today is the first day of Advent, a time of anticipation and patience as we wait for the coming of Our Lord. Those who know me know I have many shortcomings and character flaws. They also know that patience is not my strong suit. I find it helpful to do something useful as I struggle to find patience. I can think of nothing more useful than helping the Holy Family as they go to bring the Light into the world.

Once again, this year, I cannot wait for Jesus to come, so I’m striking out to walk with Jesus, Mary, and Joseph as they journey to Bethlehem. Saint Ignatius of Loyola claimed that we are all mystics, and I, as well, know it to be true. I’ll share with you how I step through the veil between this world and the next, and perhaps it will help you begin your own journey.

First, I read the daily Scripture, then ask the Lord in Mary’s womb, with Joseph close by her side, if I may be a part of their Family on their journey to Bethlehem. Then I close my eyes with the Holy Family on my mind. I never know where they will be, or if they will even be ‘there’ at all. More times than not, Our Lord, His mother, and earthly father invite me along.

My advice: go to them, eager to serve. Allow Mary to lean on your shoulder, and ask Joseph if you may carry his pack. Once you become more comfortable with Mary and Joseph, ask if you may speak to the Word, Our Lord Jesus, carried in the Ark.

Saint Andrew, pray for us.

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Jesus, I trust in you.