Advent Meditation for Monday, December 6th
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. First Thessalonians 5:16-18As I read this verse what comes to my mind is a beautiful vision of seeing humanity following the Apostle Paul’s advice to us. Can I think of myself as living by Paul’s words? Can you?Paul wants us to live like Jesus taught us to live. Why can it be so difficult for us to follow his request?When behaviors and speech that were once considered socially unacceptable are now commonplace and accepted by many, when we anticipate incidences of shootings in our schools and marketplaces, it can be hard to respond by seeking to do good to one another. The first century, when the Apostle Paul wrote, had its own violence and turmoil. In the 21st century we must try our best to “give thanks in all circumstances and rejoice without ceasing”. Show gratitude everyday for some small thing that brings you peace, that makes you smile or dance a little jig when no one is looking.Prayer As we wait for the coming of the Christ child born in a manger, who will set for us the supreme example of humane human behavior, let us welcome him with anticipation and joy. LO