Daily Inspiration

“In the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, “Hail, favored one! The Lord is with you.” But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. ” (Luke 1:26-29)

On Gaudete Sunday, the third Sunday of Advent we rejoice that the Lord is near. As I was pondering this, I remembered a lecture I listened to years ago. A biblical scholar talked about the Annunciation and the greeting given to Mary. He said the salutation, “hail”, given by the angel Gabriel carried two meanings at that time. The common meaning would equate to the present day, “what’s up”, as in, “What’s up, favored one!” More than likely though, Gabriel used the formal meaning, “Rejoice”.

“Rejoice, favored one! The Lord is with you.”

During this season I rejoice at the nearness of our Lord, while at the same time I must be patient for the coming of the Christ child. I find it an interesting combination, to rejoice, and to have patience all at the same time. For me, rejoicing in our Lord is the easy part. Patience is the area where I struggle. It then came to me, what better way to pass the time waiting than to pour myself into helping those around me? There are many in need this season, and I wonder if spiritual poverty outpaces financial poverty in our world.

I’m thankful for Advent, and the time the Lord has given me to prepare for His coming. I’ll use that time working to control my lack of patience by spending time helping others who are struggling to rejoice.

Ed

“Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains. You too must be patient. Make your hearts firm, because the coming of the Lord is at hand.” (James 5:7-8)