Are You Ready?

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was God, and the Word was with God." 

The time of preparation was over. The long awaited Messiah, prophesied in ancient times, was born in a stable, not a palace. He was born into our world as the Gift of Love.  His parents were poor.  He was not attached to the things of this world. He was not welcomed with trumpets. Humble, hard working shepherds were the first to greet the infant King.

Now, we prepare to greet the Messiah, Jesus our King, and we must be ready.  Advent is a time or preparation, prayer and penance.  The days are short, and the nights are long. Darkness overwhelms our world.  We look for the Light to come. 

 
Lord, we ask You for Your graces as we  begin this season of Advent.  Through fasting, free us from our earthly wants, possessions, and sin.  Through prayer, bring us closer to You.   Through Love, give us patience.  Through Sacred Scripture bring Your Words to life in our hearts.   Through Your Mother Mary give us the graces that will bring our broken, beaten hearts to You.  Transform us.

Remind us, that Christmas is the celebration of Your Birth.  While we gather with family and friends, be with us.  Help us to know You.   You brought heaven to earth.  You brought light to the darkness. Transform our lives.  Transform our world.

Mother Mary, first tabernacle of Jesus, carry us in your heart as you carried Jesus in your  pure womb. 

Jesus, You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God, have Mercy on Me a sinner.  Amen.