Advent Meditation for Wednesday, December 8th

Jesus called the Twelve together and he gave them power and authority over all the demons and to heal sickness.  They departed and went through the village proclaiming the Good News and healing the people everywhere.   Luke 9: 1-2, 6There are many interpretations of this scripture and varied beliefs, but let's focus on what we can do today to heal ourselves, our loved ones, and others we come in contact with.  You might ask, how in the world can I heal another person?  Isn't that the job of medical professionals?  Well, look in the mirror and who do you see?  You see someone looking back at you that God loves.  It doesn't matter if we feel sad, depressed, lonely or wonderfully happy.  We are loved.  Now our job is to share that love with our neighbors.  How?  When we feel a nudge to call a friend or family member, even if we haven't heard from them in a while, don't put it off.  Make the call.  When we encounter a person in the grocery store, aren't they our neighbor?  Don't be afraid; nod and smile, because even with our masks on, God's love will shine through.Here's something to think about.  When buying those rolls of stamps to send our once-a-year Christmas cards, buy a few more so you can send notes of love and inspiration throughout the year to friends who have lost loved ones, or who are struggling, or just to say hello.  Just reach out.  We can do it.  Remember we are loved, we are loving, we are lovable.Father-Mother God, help us to remember we are your precious children.  We praise you for your never-ending love, even when we feel as though we don't deserve it.  Help us to be kind, loving and forgiving during this season that sometimes takes our attention away from the blessed event of the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus the Christ.  Amen.