The Gospel reading for the Fourth Sunday of Advent is rich with meaning for Christians. It helps us consider where we find Christ in our midst. Are we prepared to open our eyes to see Christ in the poor and the least powerful in our society? It also asks us to reflect on how we discover Christ being birthed within each of us. Are we attentive to nurturing that spark within us that is from God; that seed of life that is meant to be born by us individually; that is a gift from God for the world; something unique, that we each have to offer in our own way? It is necessary that each of us take time to reflect on this call. This precious gift that may manifest itself differently as we find ourselves at different stages in our lives, is nonetheless ours to give, through God’s grace working in us.
However, what caught my imagination in this Sunday’s Gospel was Joseph; dear Joseph, who must have been completely bewildered and disappointed upon discovering his future bride was already pregnant. And yet (with some persuasion from an angel) was willing to support and love Mary, and Jesus, as his family – contradicting the norms of society and his own reason. Joseph offered Mary a home, a community, in which she could give birth to Emmanuel, thereby fulfilling God’s plan.
This calls me to reflect on the importance of community in our lives. Who do we spend our time with? Who challenges us and encourages us to discover Christ within us? Who supports us as we birth Christ in our daily lives? And, of equal importance – how do we support and nurture others so that they can discover Christ within themselves individually and as a community of faith? How do we react when people share with us what they believe to be true. Are we dismissive? Do we challenge them immediately? Or do we walk with them, and help them to unpack that truth more fully.
In a world that has become increasingly private, I have been profoundly moved and inspired in my ministry by a pretty incredible group of young adults who have come together this year. They are at different points in their lives—some are students, some are just starting careers—but they share a bond through their faith. I’m inspired as I observe the care, concern and gentle love that they have for one another. They share ideas, and wonderings about their individual journeys. They call one another to authenticity, and they support one another as they discover their unique gifts. They listen to one another and God speaking through the other.
This type of community of faith is important for each of us as we discern, and birth Jesus in our hearts. Perhaps we can spend some time this advent season reflecting on not only on where Christ is in our own hearts, but on how we support and foster relationship with those we encounter – recognizing that Christ is also present there. How do we listen to God’s word together?
- Annette Donovan Panchaud, Associate, The Sisters of St. Joseph