Provisions for the Journey to Bethlehem: Brief Reflections on the Daily Scriptures During Advent

By Elaine Ireland

Elaine Ireland is a Christian writer, retreat leader, and spiritual director focused on finding God’s presence in the everyday, and on bringing the Scripture alive for our world today. You can read her weekly Scripture reflections at preacherexchange.com/comeandsee.

Each week of Advent has a theme. Week one: God’s people wait in hope and faith. Week two: we focus on words of peace from the Old Testament prophets. Week three is about love and the words of John, the Baptist. Week four: we celebrate joy with Mary, Mother of God. But the overriding theme of Advent is waiting and preparing in hope, a grace so essential, so necessary for the whole world right now. Where do you find hope?

Week 1

• Sunday, November 28

  “Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God; for you I wait all the day.” (Ps 25)

  How patient are you? There have been lots of studies about the precipitous decline in this virtue and how quickly we lose patience. Waiting all the day? It drives us nuts to even wait in line! The computer taking a few extra seconds to boot up -- “What’s wrong with this thing?” Supply chain problems? Horror upon horrors that our over-indulged children might not get the latest fad gift on time!

  I like the Hebrew translation of this phrase: “In you do I hope every day.” Hope is an attitude for living, waiting patiently – and not for specific things -- and understanding it is not all about us; that God’s timeframe is not our timeframe: “...patience is the gift of understanding that important things need time, that change is organic, that there are limits and we have to work within them while keeping our eyes on the horizon, as Jesus did....God acts in the simplicity of open hearts, in the patience of those who pause until they can see clearly.” (Pope Francis, Let Us Dream, pp.43; 61)

  Today’s Provision—Press the pause button! For those able to gather with family and friends again this year, we are so eager to make up for lost time. We may wish Advent would just speed past so that nothing has the chance to get in the way of our joyous reunions. It’s wonderful to be excited, but let’s not overlook the need we have to practice waiting in hope. Now, more than ever, let’s try to renew our commitment to faith and true hope, not just for the immediate future, but for the long haul. If you find yourself overly anxious or harried during these next few weeks, imagine pressing the pause button on your life. Take some deeps breaths. Think and see clearly. Say a prayer to reaffirm your hope in God’s providence and presence.

• Monday, November 29

  ”They shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks; One nation shall not raise the sword against another, nor shall they train for war again.” (Is 2:1-5)

  What are the swords and spears we use today? AK47s? Pipe bombs? Oh yes, some still carry spears as we saw on January 6 at the US Capitol! Many of our weapons are not physical objects but attitudes and societal conditions: Poverty. Racism. Character assassination. Lies. Drugs. Apathy. Beating these weapons into useful, productive things takes strength and fortitude, courage and creativity. As the people of Israel prayed in hope for God’s rescue, we too pray for the days to come when all people shall stream towards the house of the Lord. But what can you do to make this real today?

  Today’s Provision—Be aware of the “weapons” you use: This may be uncomfortable, but pay attention to see if you use things like shame or rigidity to hurt someone else, to belittle them. Do you criticize or judge without listening (guilty as charged) or make snap judgments about someone based on their clothes, their race, their economic condition, political party, or religion? How will you use your heightened awareness to change your “weapon” into a source of growth, hope, and love?

• Tuesday, November 30

  “Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life. The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul.” (Jn 6:63, Ps 19)

  Do you read Scripture? I mean really read it, word for word, like you’ve never heard it before, using your intellect and imagination, listening for what a particular passage is saying to you? Sometimes, I read Scripture with a chip on my shoulder, particularly when I read some of the Advent passages from Isaiah. I find myself asking, as in Psalm 13, “How long, Lord?” I don’t allow the words to refresh me. I don’t let them give me life or hope.

  Today’s Provision—Find hope in God’s word: Take time to read and listen to a few psalms of hope: 3:3-6; 16:7-8; Ps 46, 91, 107, and 121. Write a psalm for yourself, your own situation and feelings. Use your own words and don’t worry about poetic images and rhythm. Humbly cry out to God. Let the Spirit guide you to refreshment.

• Wednesday, December 1

  Great crowds came to Jesus with them the lame, the blind, the deformed... They placed them at his feet, and he cured them. The crowds were amazed...and they glorified the God of Israel. (Mt 15:29-37)

  When I read passages like this, I wonder: Were some people in the crowd that day the same people in the crowd outside Pilate’s balcony when Jesus was condemned to death? How could you, after experiencing your loved ones being cured, not have unshakeable faith? I remember that most of his closest disciples, while not condemning him, ran away, afraid for their own lives. And again, I wonder: With all the blessings I have in my life, the miracles I witness every day, would I too lack faith and just go along with the leaders and the crowd? Would I run away as well?

  Today’s Provision—Strengthen your faith: “How,” you ask? “How do I strengthen my faith when my hope is waning?” Paul gives us the best advice: “Pray always.” (1 Thes 5:16) “Ok, how do I do that? I can’t stay on my knees all day!” We pray always by living in active awareness of God’s presence. The only way we can, as today’s Psalm says, “live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life” is to realize the house of the Lord is everywhere, in everyone and in all things. Remember the suggestion from Sunday: press the pause button. Slow down and look around. God is present. God will guide you on the right paths and give you courage.

• Thursday, December 2

  “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the Kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father.” (Mt 7:21, 24-27)

  “Well, how do I know I am doing God’s will?” As a spiritual director, I get this question all the time. People with good hearts, good intentions just want a definitive answer. Gosh, I always ask for the same thing: “Lord, if you would just appear with a sign that read: ‘Elaine, go do ...,” I’d do it!” Oh really? Some are called to make great physical sacrifices for God, but for most of us, the sacrifice comes down to our egos. And that can be very hard indeed!

  Today’s Provision—Seek peace: Notice, this doesn’t say comfort or happiness, or even joy. Peace. We can know we are doing God’s will when we feel a deep, abiding peace in our souls. We enter the Kingdom of heaven every time we put ourselves aside, not because we are “supposed to” or as martyrs, but out of true selfless love, getting our egos out of the way. Go back to yesterday’s reflection. Strengthen your faith by praying always. Pray always by seeing God in all things. By seeing God, make a conscious decision to love in all circumstances. Rest assured. You are doing God’s will.

• Friday, December 3

  “I believe I shall see the bounty of the LORD in the land of the living.” “If I but trust, (I will) see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” (Ps 27:4, 13-14; Hebrew translation)

  Let’s talk about the difference between trust and belief. I assume people reading this would claim to believe in Jesus. The real question is “Do I trust Jesus?” I may be a follower, but am I willing to walk side-by-side with him? That level of intimacy requires trust and a willingness to be vulnerable. When I follow, I can choose to take detours and off-ramps and join the crowd later when things are more to my liking. To walk alongside Jesus requires me to trust him.

  Today’s Provision—Consider what it means to trust Jesus: Pray with this concept. The world would be a much better place if more people would follow the teachings of love and compassion that Jesus demonstrated by his life. There’s nothing wrong or even lacking in following Jesus, as long as we are not tempted by the detours life offers us. And two detours quite prevalent today are negativity and lack of hope. This is where trust becomes that much more important. What would it take for you to trust Jesus, to walk side-by-side with him, even through his passion...even through your own?

• Saturday, December 4

  At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd....”Ask the master to send out laborers for his harvest.” (Mt 9: 35-10: 8)

  I see God looking upon the Israelites in exile, hearing their cries. I imagine Jesus looking out over the refugee camps and immigrant detention facilities all over the world today, hearing their cries as well. Those living in exile today may be safer than they would be at home, but nonetheless, they are troubled, abandoned, lost. Regardless of how we feel politically about this issue, let’s not let that get in the way of our being laborers in God’s fields, bringing hope to those for whom hope is scarce.

  Today’s Provision—Bring hope to someone who is lost: Do something. Pray fervently for the peace and safety of all displaced persons. If it is within your means, make a monetary contribution to help feed children in camps and detention centers. Involve young people making cards or sending gifts to those who will have no celebrations this season. Check out local outreach centers for refugees and immigrants. Consider volunteering your time and sharing compassion. Perhaps someone within your own family or community has lost their way. Help Jesus be the Good Shepherd by being there for others in need.

Week 2

• Sunday, December 5

  Jerusalem, take off your robe of mourning and misery; put on the splendor of glory from God forever...bear on your head the mitre that displays the glory of the eternal name ....you will be named by God forever the peace of justice...” (Bar 5:1-9; Note: Baruch was Jeremiah’s faithful secretary; this book is not contained in the Jewish Masoretic text; it is in the Apocrypha in most Protestant Bibles.)

  Baruch is speaking of Jerusalem as a mother welcoming her returning children home. But what comes to mind as I read this? When people look at me, do they see “the glory of the eternal name?” Is the splendor of God’s glory obvious in how I live? I don’t mean this is an egotistical or showy way -- do people see my faith? Do my actions speak of the peace of justice? Too often I hide behind a robe of worldly misery, betraying the Presence within and around me.

  Today’s Provision—Put on the peace of Christ: Paul instructs us in Romans 13 to “put on Christ.” What does that look like at this time in your life? How do you reflect God’s love and glory as you go about your day? Is your faith obvious in ways other than a cross around your neck? How do you promote justice? Spend time this week fostering peace and justice, wearing your love for Christ’s eternal name...if not on your head, then at least on your sleeve!

• Monday, December 6

  ”Strengthen the hands that are feeble, make firm the knees that are weak; say to those whose hearts are frightened: Be strong, fear not!” (Is 35:1-10)

  Many still struggle with slackened, feeble hands of mourning or oppression, tottering knees weakened by loss and uncertainty. And there are those lurking out there who want us to be afraid. Very afraid. Insidious messages of fear can find an easy way into our hearts and souls, especially when we are weak and don’t have God as our strong shield. But it does no good to simply preach this to those who are suffering and afraid. Those of us so blessed with strong faith and material resources are called to carry God’s shield for those who cannot carry it themselves. How will you bring peace, courage, and comfort to others this Advent?

  Today’s Provision—" I will hear what God proclaims, for he proclaims peace to his people.” (Ps 85) God proclaims peace, but unfortunately, there are those who claim to speak for God whose messages are anything but peaceful. We need to counter this fear with love. It can be as simple as a smile and gracious welcome to someone whose appearance or language indicates they are immigrants; a wrapped Christmas package of toiletries, socks, and other personal items to give to the poor you encounter. It can be a longer-term commitment to accompany the homeless, the disabled, the lonely, the elderly. It can be actively advocating for just laws and practices. Whatever it is, make it real. Don’t stay at arm’s length. Instead, be God’s strong arm and comforting embrace for another.

• Tuesday, December 7

  “All flesh is grass, and all their glory like the flower of the field. The grass withers, the flower wilts...Though the grass withers and the flower wilts, the word of our God stands forever.” (Is 40:1-11)

  I’d guess that probably no one reading this wants to spend much time reflecting on the loss of life we have experienced from the COVID-19 virus, which surpassed 5 million worldwide in November. This number is grossly understated given deaths occurring in areas where statistics are not kept. And that doesn’t even take into account deaths due to hunger, climate change, and other diseases. I know I feel it too—“Let’s put the bad news behind us and celebrate!”

  I read an article several years ago entitled “Beyond Comprehension” about our capacity to deal with the suffering of others. The author’s research indicates that as the number of those impacted by suffering increases, our ability to feel it on a personal level does not—it is more than our brain can process. We are more moved when the need is right in front of us or focused on the suffering of one—we think it is within our ability to control.

  Yet we owe it to those who have died, to our children, and to ourselves to hold on to the lessons of this time and the frailty of life. And to find peace in the knowledge that God’s Word has stood, is standing, and will stand with us forever.

  Today’s Provision—Pray for peace: Call to mind a story or image that has moved you to feelings of deep compassion. Say a prayer of peace for the people in that story. If you are suffering, join your suffering with that of others as you breath in, and then breathe out peace to all, including to yourself (a prayer practice called tonglen).

• Wednesday, December 8

  God asked him, “Where are you?” He answered, “I heard you in the garden; but I was afraid, because I was naked, so I hid myself. Then he asked, “Who told you that you were naked?” (Gn 3:9-15, 20)

  Given there was no one else around to call attention to Adam and Eve’s nakedness, I’d say it must have been their conscience speaking to them! Oh, we all know how that feels...not a particularly peaceful feeling, is it? At some point, most people have tried to hide from God. Typically, we start by ignoring God, but God keeps rustling around in the garden of our conscience. We might resort to pointing fingers at others -- even blaming God — as Adam does! Thank goodness we can turn to Jesus who restores our relationship with God and brings us peace through forgiveness!

  Today’s Provision—Seek peace through forgiveness: There is nothing that heals and brings peace like true forgiveness, both for those who forgive and those who are forgiven. Even if the person from whom you seek forgiveness or need to forgive is not willing or available, just the conscious act of independently asking for or granting forgiveness can be incredibly freeing. (Read a recent news story about the power of restorative justice: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/26/us/missouri-officer-criminal-charge-dismissed.html)

• Thursday, December 9

  “I, the God of Israel will not forsake them. I will open up rivers on the bare heights, and fountains in the broad valleys; I will turn the desert into a marshland, and the dry ground into springs of water...the hand of the LORD has done this...” (Is 41: 17-20)

  We know all things are possible with God, but if there is one thing in particular where God really nails it, it is turning what was barren into fertile ground. Bringing forth life and love where none could exist before. Quenching the thirst of those in search of living water. If you find yourself in a desert place this Advent, or thirsting for more in your life, take heart. Have hope. Let the hand of the Lord lead you to the nourishment and peace you need. God will not forsake you.

  Today’s Provision—Seek peace through living water: If you’ve become accustomed to dryness in your spiritual life, you may not even know where to go to quench your thirst. Perhaps your regular wells have run dry. Consider attending a morning or day-long retreat. Or type “online advent retreats” into your web browser and pick from a whole host of options. Get some like-minded friends together and form a spiritual support group. Try praying in a new way. Remove the dams that keep God’s living water of peace from flowing through your life.

• Friday, December 10

  “John came ... and they said, ‘He is possessed by a demon.’ The Son of Man came... and they said, ‘Look, he is a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ But wisdom is vindicated by her works.” (Mt 11; 16-19)

  What is the meaning of the phrase, “wisdom is vindicated by her works” (or her children, as Luke says)? One explanation is that time will vindicate both Jesus and John, but another presents an interesting idea: The Spirit of God, in her infinite wisdom, sends different kinds of messengers to the world. There are people who are swayed by the asceticism of John the Baptist, and those who respond to the table fellowship and inclusiveness of Jesus. Just like there are those who come to God more readily through fasting, penance, and tradition, and those who see God in the faces and the world around them; those who prefer quiet contemplative or imaginative prayer and those who rely on recited prayer. The point is God comes to us where we are, as we are. Like a lover who won’t take no for an answer, God will pursue us using messages (and messengers) that speak to our unique needs...if we take the time to look and listen.

  Today’s Provision—Let God speak peace to you: ”No little words can hold a candle to the splendor of the sun; that can explain this world of wonder and shine the same on everyone. But little words can hold a candle all on your own when darkness comes; they’re just the size for us to handle, and God knows your native tongue.” © David Wilcox, www.youtube.com/watch?v=MvJQQNs-YWs

• Saturday, December 11

  “Lord, make us turn to you; let us see your face and we shall be saved.” (Ps 80).

  In Exodus 33:20, Moses, called by God “an intimate friend,” asks to see God’s glory. God tells Moses, “my face you cannot see, for no man sees me and still lives.” In today’s psalm, however, the people are asking for just that—to see God’s face as a means to their salvation.

  Soon we commemorate the answer to this prayer God’s light radiated in the face of a little child. Like the moon, reflecting the light of sun and guiding our way in the darkness, Jesus offers us freely what Moses longed for—to see the face of God. “The face of Christ...shows us the one thing we need to know—the character of God.” (P.C. Simpson)

  Today’s provision—Seek peace amid the busyness: It’s around the time that preparations go into high gear. It’s easy to get distracted from the real goal of our Advent journey. Let’s use this day to renew our sense of peace by being grateful to God for all our blessings, especially for the gift of God made flesh in Jesus.

Week 3

• Sunday, December 12

  “Brothers and sisters: Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice! Your kindness should be known to all. The Lord is near. Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 4:4-7)

  This is always a great reading for the third week of Advent, especially the part about having no anxiety at all! The people are anticipating Christ’s return, so I see them scurrying around, making sure of every step so they don’t jeopardize their chances of being welcomed into the Kingdom. Scholars say Paul is imprisoned as he writes this so perhaps, he is exhorting himself as well!

  The key phrase for us: “The Lord is near.” 2,000+ years hence, the Lord is still near. Let your love and your kindness attest to that truth. Let your love and kindness be known to all!

  Today’s Provision—Be kind: I’m in major scurry mode these days, anticipating seeing family, including my son, who I haven’t seen in person for two years! So it’s important, in the midst of my busyness, that I make sure to demonstrate kindness. Lord knows, we need it! We all need to be treated with kindness, but also to experience the joy of treating others with kindness. So make a point to smile at everyone this week. Be gentle. Be friendly. Then the peace that surpasses all understanding will guard and enrich your heart. Trust me. It’s the best antidote for anxiety!

• Monday, December 13

  ”The utterance of Balaam, son of Beor, the utterance of a man whose eye is true...of one who sees what the Almighty sees, enraptured, and with eyes unveiled...” (Nm 24:2-7, 15-17a)

  The story of Balaam, the pagan prophet, is delightful to read, particularly the part that precedes this (in chapter 22) about his talking donkey! In that story, Balaam clearly does not see! His words here sound like self-aggrandizement, but the Hebrew translation is clearer: “...the utterance of the man open-eyed, utterance of him who hears El’s sayings, who the vision of Shaddai beholds, prostrate with eyes unveiled.” He gives himself credit, not for seeing as God sees, but for being open to the grace to see as God does, to hear God’s voice, giving God all the praise and honor for this gift. He looks out over the encampments of Israel and sees them, not as the enemy, but with God’s own eyes: with pride, admiration, and love — the way God looks at each one of us.

  Today’s Provision—Look with loving eyes: Make a commitment today to try and look upon the world with God’s eyes of love. Sometimes, it is hard for me to imagine God’s eyes not being filled with tears at the suffering and sorrow we inflict upon each other. But God’s ways are not my ways, and I believe that if there are tears, behind them is an inexhaustible well of love. Oh, and one more thing about looking with loving eyes...use them to look in the mirror as well. See yourself as God sees you.

• Tuesday, December 14

  “In the LORD (Zion) has not trusted; to her God she has not drawn near.” (Zep 3:1-2, 9-13)

  Last Friday, we talked about trusting God and the need to draw near, to walk side-by-side with Jesus. In difficult times, a relationship with God that is based on catechism, or on theoretical or intellectual love just won’t cut it. We need the kind of love expressed in the psalms: deep, heartfelt longing. We hear today, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted...” Yes, God is close to us always, but are we close to God?

  Today’s Provision—Make love real: For some, this might be uncomfortable. It was for me, and if I am not careful to fall in love with God each day, that heartfelt love can easily change into an intellectual exercise rather than an intimate encounter. Over the years, I’ve recommended several of William Barry’s books: A Friendship Like No Other, God’s Passionate Desire. I also recommend Love Poems from God, a collection of writings from different faith traditions edited by Daniel Ladinsky. Buy yourself a Christmas present and learn more about God’s passionate love for you.

  (Here’s part of a prayer/poem I’ve also shared before, but it bears repeating. Imagine God saying these words to you:) “I love you because I can't do anything else. I made you, every last part of you: all that's hidden and all that's revealed; all that's muddled and even all that's clear. You are, at the risk of repeating myself, dear to me. You are precious in my eyes because...just because you are mine. That's enough for me. And it will have to do for you. Wrestle with it until you get tired and then relax and give in. Take a deep breath and enjoy." (“Broken Record" by Michael Moynahan, SJ, in “Hearts on Fire,” M. Harter SJ, editor, 1993, p 34.)

• Wednesday, December 15

  “The creator of the heavens, who is God, the designer and maker of the earth who established it, not creating it to be a waste, but designing it be lived in...” (Is 45:6-8, 18, 21-25)

  Why did God, the Creator, the Source, do all this? Creating the heavens, the universes, the solar systems, the planets, Mother Earth and all her creatures, including us? The answer can be found in 1 John 4:16: “God is love.” Love creates. It can do nothing else. Love cares and is compassionate. It cannot remain closed in on itself. It needs to continue to recreate in order to live. “And those who remain in love, remain in God, and God in them.” With all the different human interpretations of creation and the Creator, and all the religions and philosophies that bring us to battle, to war, and to death, this is the Truth: God is love and to remain in God--now and for all eternity--we must love ourselves, each other, the earth, and all God has created. We need to in order to live.

  Today’s Provision—Love yourself: When I see people so angry, so hateful, hellbent (literally) on defeating “the other side” or abusing creation, I try to pray they can learn to love by learning to love themselves. (Note: I try. I don’t always succeed!) The next time you see or experience someone lashing out — at you personally or at others — pray for them that God will soften their hearts with love. If you are the one lashing out, step back. Ask yourself: “Why don’t I love myself? Why is God’s love for me not enough?”

• Thursday, December 16

  “Though the mountains leave their place and the hills be shaken, My love shall never leave you nor my covenant of peace be shaken, says the LORD, who has mercy on you.” (Is 54:1-10)

  Today’s Provision—Make this prayer your own: There is nothing I can add to these beautiful words, but here’s a suggestion of what you can do: Take that first phrase about the mountains and the hills and replace with your own words. “Though your loved one has died... “Though you have lost your job...” Though your marriage has failed...” “Though you’ve been forced from your homeland by starvation, poverty, or violence...” “Though your home, your health, your life has been upended by natural disasters, pandemics, financial ruin...” Or, if you are one who, like me, is richly blessed: “Remember, as you look at those who suffer around you, my love never leaves, so use your blessings, use the gifts I have given you to make known to all my covenant of peace and mercy. And know, too, that should suffering befall, I will be with you always until the end of the world.”

• Friday, December 17

  “In him, shall all the tribes of the earth be blessed; all the nations shall proclaim his happiness.” (Ps 72) “And may all nations be blessed through him, call him happy.” (Hebrew translation)

  You want to be able to call God happy? Happiness is not an attribute we assign much to God, for good reason. I don’t think, over the millennia, we’ve done too well at making God happy. And I’m not sure if that goal is on the docket at the UN, but maybe it’s just said in a different way: It’s called world peace for ALL nations and it starts in our own homes and communities. Are there family members who have abandoned the faith of their childhood or turned to another faith? Don’t preach. Don’t rage. Ask God to bless them; not to change them, to bless as they are, where they are. Is there conflict in your church community? How about admitting that we don’t know as God knows (remember, that’s what got us into hot water in the first place!) and accepting the expansiveness of God and God’s love that can manifest itself in ways we can’t even imagine. Love is inclusive. Are we?

  Today’s Provision—Be inclusive: Roman Catholic bishops all over the world, at the direction of Pope Francis, are in the early stages of a synodal or listening process, getting feedback from the laity about community, participation, and mission. (At least they are supposed to be doing this; some bishops’ conferences are being more intentional than others.) As expected, there’s already lots of hand wringing and debate, but I think it just comes down to this: You want to make God happy? Be inclusive. Walk the walk. If everyone is invited, then no one should be turned away. Love. Don’t exclude. Allow God to do what God does best: turning hearts towards love.

• Saturday, December 18

  “She was found with child through the Holy Spirit.” (Mt 1:18-25)

  I was looking through a book of photography chronicling Pope Francis’ papacy thus far, and there was a lovely picture of couples in wedding attire getting ready to be married by the Pope. Several of the women were pregnant and Francis’ delight at their beauty was evident. I had to wonder...there are probably those who would condemn an image like this. Then I thought of Perugino’s painting, The Marriage of the Virgin, where Mary’s hand rests on her obviously pregnant belly. I gave thanks for the example Mary sets for all women to be joyous and unafraid as they carry their children. I gave thanks for Joseph and his wisdom and faith.

  Today’s provision—“Emmanuel: God is with us.” Let us pray today for all women carrying a child this season, those doing so within the comfortable confines of a warm home with partnership and community around them; and those who are alone or in poverty, unsure of their next steps. Pray that they will feel God’s presence with them, and may we as a community, as a nation, and as a world, commit the resources necessary to support them and their children, that they may raise them in places of safety, security, and peace.

Week 4

• Sunday, December 19

  ...he shall be peace. (Mi 5:4)

  Twenty-seven hundred years have passed since Micah said these words. The “he” of course is the long-awaited Messiah. Israel has been on a roller coaster ride since David’s reign in 1,000 B.C. with brief periods of calm interspersed with defeats, exiles, and wicked leaders. I guess we can say the last 2,000 years have been no different for humanity. Peace still seems to elude us.

  But perhaps, like the ancient Kingdom of Israel, we don’t understand what this peace really means. We look for God to flip a switch so the other person might see the light. We look for peace to be imposed from the outside, when peace can never be achieved that way. In the words of Buddhist monk and peace activist, Thich Nhat Hanh, “To work for peace is to uproot war from ourselves and from the hearts of men and women.”

  The only way Jesus can truly be our own Prince of Peace is if we allow him to change our hearts, to root out hatred and prejudice so we can be beacons of peace, a source of joy for others.

  Today’s Provision—Cultivate peace and joy within: Micah, like all the prophets, writes of the Messiah in future tense. But as Christians, we believe the Messiah lives in our midst. It’s not some future peace we await. Jesus IS peace. Here. Right now. So how do we cultivate this peace? It takes mindfulness and continual tending in prayer. It means that when provoked, the switch we flip is not one of retaliation or frustration, but of compassion. We look to respond rather than react. It is surely not easy.

  If this approach is new for you, like all new habits, it takes time and work. One way is to look closely at people or situations that foster peace and joy in you and those that disrupt your peace. Consider both nonjudgmentally to see if you can uncover any patterns: “Why does this person lead me to peace? Why do these kinds of situations make me uneasy?” Be alert to times when your sense of interior peace is moved either way. There’s a lot we can learn from this about ourselves and God’s call to us. (And yes, this is a part of that pesky nightly Examen I talk about all the time!

• Monday, December 20

  “Let the Lord enter.” (Ps 24)

  The instruction is clear: The Lord is ready and waiting. Maybe he’s making his presence obvious, knocking at the door or “gazing through the window, peering through the lattices,” like the lover from tomorrow’s Song of Songs reading! More than likely though, God is speaking in whispers or through the presence of another. God ”appears” to us by catching our eye or through “God-cumstances” or “Spirit-dipity.” The question: Will you let God enter?

  Today’s Provision—Finding joy in God’s presence: “This is a strange provision. Of course, we find joy in God’s presence!” Oh really? I guess that means you are joyful all the time! There are those among us who seem to radiate joy, aware of God’s abiding presence. But for most of us, it takes effort and a special kind of awareness to allow God to enter our every days. See if today you can be aware of God. Then, take the next step: Invite God in.

• Tuesday, December 21

  “Exult, you just, in the Lord! Sing to him a new song. But the plan of the LORD stands forever the design of his heart, through all generations.” (Ps 33)

  “The Lord’s counsel will stand forever, his heart’s devisings for all generations.” (Hebrew translation). God’s wisdom does not change. God’s desire for all people in every generation is the same: peace, joy, mercy, love. But every generation has its unique challenges (although many, at their root, are the same). So we come to God with new songs: songs of thanksgiving, songs of repentance, songs of petition and for mercy. We can always use the songs of old and prayers of our traditions -- sometimes, they are the most consoling and the easiest to pray. But they can also become hollow, void of the fire God desires in our hearts. In his book, Let Us Dream, Pope Francis quotes Gustav Mahler that “tradition is not the repository of ashes but the preservation of fire.”

  “See, I am making all things new!” In this season of the new-born babe, let us turn to God with new songs, new prayers that speak directly to the challenges and desires we hold in our hearts.

  Today’s Provision—Sing a new song to God: Our theme this week is joy, and for many, I pray, there will be the joy of reuniting with loved ones. We can sing songs of thanksgiving. But for others -- I am thinking and praying right now for those in US suffering such loss due to the recent outbreaks of violent weather — songs of joy and thanksgiving will be hard to come by. That’s ok. Just make it real. Pray to God in whatever words console you. Sing to God with whatever fire is burning in you right now. Try to find the strength to trust that God’s plan for peace stands forever.

• Wednesday, December 22

  “He raises the needy from the dust; from the dung heap he lifts up the poor, to seat them with nobles and make a glorious throne their heritage.” (1 Sm 1:24-28)

  In ancient societies, and to a real extent, implicit in modern culture, people were born into a specific caste or societal level. If you were born into nobility, you, your children, and your children’s children would reap the benefits. Those of a poor or despised heritage had little chance of breaking free from that burden. We see this play out around the world today. I think of what Nathanael says in John 1:46 about Jesus’ origins: “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” So too, we often judge people, before we’ve even met them, by their appearance, economic status, religion, or birthplace. But we hear in Hannah’s Canticle that God will take the poor and oppressed and change their lot. And this season, we celebrate him doing just that: beginning his life on earth in poverty and simplicity, in humble circumstances.

  Today’s Provision—Finding joy in humility: We live in a culture that does not value humility. Maybe we don’t even know how to demonstrate humility. So it’s good to remember the great quote from C.S. Lewis: “Humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.” Be aware today. See if you can change your focus from what you can get out of an encounter to what you can give. You’ll be amazed at the real joy you can feel!

• Thursday, December 23

  “And suddenly there will come to the temple the LORD whom you seek...But who will endure the day of his coming? ... For he is like the refiner’s fire, or like the fuller’s lye.” (Mal 3:1-4, 23-24)

  “Oh, yes, I seek the Lord! But what’s this about ‘the refiner’s fire’ and ‘the fuller’s lye?’ That isn’t on the job description I submitted! That’s not the kind of Lord I am seeking!” There are times I would be quite happy just to keep with the image of Christ as the new born babe, a warm and fuzzy God; not a God that challenges me or burns me with remorse, with righteous outrage, with a longing for resolutions and answers. But that’s what the Incarnation is really about. If we seek the Lord, we have to accept all that comes with it. We can’t claim true faith in Christ unless we make our mantra, our way of life his instruction: “Love one another.”

  Today’s Provision—Finding joy of God’s promise in real life: And real life is real messy. We can get burned loving others. We can be taken advantage of when we choose humility. Reflect today on a time you were burned. Do you hold a grudge? If so, try to forgive from your heart. Again, you’ll be surprised by the joy forgiveness can bring!

• Friday, December 24

  “In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace." (Lk 1:78-79)

  One of most beautiful verses in all of Scripture! I imagine an artist’s depiction of the deep and comforting emotions of these words: tender compassion, a guiding light shining on those in darkness, our very feet being led on the way of peace. It’s a lovely verse for us to pray, this year in particular. Maybe we don’t feel joy in the more exuberant use of the word, but instead, a deep, abiding, warm joy whose embers keep aflame the love of God in our hearts. Hold onto the feelings these words inspire in you and try to keep the simple, warm joy of Christmas alive every day.

  Today’s Provision—What does joy look like to you? Maybe you are an artist. Or maybe not. It doesn’t matter. Dust off your imagination and in some creative way, use your prayer time today to depict what these words bring forth in you. How do they make you feel? Use colors, words, musical notes — heck, use playdough if you want! Write a poem or a list of adjectives, call to mind a memory that fills you with joy, a desire that instills joy. Make it real and then give God thanks for the promise that joy is and will indeed be yours!

• Saturday, December 25

  “I will be a father to him, and he shall be a son to me.” (Heb 1:1-6, from 2 Sm 7:14)

  In the Roman Catholic tradition, the Year of St. Joseph just ended earlier this month. Pope Francis had declared last year dedicated to Joseph to help “us see more clearly the importance of ‘ordinary’ people who, though far from the limelight, exercise patience and offer hope every day. In this, they resemble Saint Joseph, ‘the man who goes unnoticed, a daily, discreet and hidden presence,’ who nonetheless played ‘an incomparable role in the history of salvation.’” (https://www.vaticannews.va)

  Today, as we celebrate this extraordinary event of God becoming one of us, let us give thanks for all the ordinary people who do extraordinary things every day: those who care for the poor, the stranger, the oppressed; those who care for our health, teach our children, and protect us from harm. We pray St. Joseph will instill in them his quiet peace and joy as they serve Christ in each of the lives they touch. Have a blessed and joy-filled Christmas!

  Today’s Provision—Joseph’s Canticle: ‘To Be God’s Father Here’ by Roy Tolentino and Norman Agatep https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_dGoRMbBVU (performed by Bukas Palad, a Filipino music ministry. Enjoy!!) (REF) Glory to the Lord! God's name be praised, for You chose to save Your servant's heart from fear. Dream in me, O Lord, grant me the grace to be God's father here. (I) Open my heart, which by Your Spirit stirred receives the Holy Word: the promise my bride has heard. We hope and trust, surrender to Your plan: You've sent the Son of Man. Salvation is at hand! (II) Lend me Your love, to raise Him as my own, provide Him with a home, where justice and peace are known. God from above becomes Emmanuel: Our restlessness dispel! In God, teach us to dwell. Hallelujah! Praise the Son! Hallelujah! Holy One! Hallelujah! Child most dear, I'll be Your father here.

About the Author

Elaine Ireland is a Christian writer, retreat leader, and spiritual director focused on finding God’s presence in the everyday, and on bringing the Scripture alive for our world today. She is currently the Spiritual Director for the Ignatian Volunteer Corps in Baltimore and serves as an adjunct retreat leader at Loyola on the Potomac. You can read her weekly Scripture reflections at preacherexchange.com/comeandsee.