Well here it is and there it goes!
This year the calendar permits one day only, of what is usually a week, and then a quick turn around into the festivities of Christmas. The fourth week of Advent begins and ends on Sunday, well with a few hours in the heart of Monday, but then . . .
In the Sunday gospel Elizabeth questions: “Why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me?” We would like to linger and ponder that great visit of Mary to her cousin, both with child, both awaiting a miraculous birth. Both an expression of God’s largesse of love for - yes the individual mothers, - and ah yes for the entirety of all creation.
Well, this year the rhythm of the liturgical year is imitating the rhythm of giving birth. The signs come quickly and the process begins, and then the wondrous mystery shines forth in glorious light.
In the beginning was Divine Love
Through a simple breath Love birthed creation
Then at the appointed time
Love burst into humanity
And Love became flesh
Dwelling with us . . among us . . .around us . . .
May you and yours be God’s Word of Love shining forth in glorious light
Proclaiming Christ’s Peace and Hope to our world.
- Sr. Loretta Manzara, csj