Friday of the Third Week of Advent

Advent Prayer

Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, ever faithful to your promises and ever close to your Church: the earth rejoices in hope of the Savior's coming and looks forward with longing to his return at the end of time. Prepare our hearts and remove the sadness that hinders us from feeling the joy and hope which his presence will bestow, for he is Lord for ever and ever. Amen.

Holy is his Name.He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation.
Luke 1:49-50

Reflection:
His name is holy and he does have mercy for those who fear him. He does great things for us. Look at what he has done for Mary and Elizabeth and many others throughout the Old Testament to bring us many who are loyal and follow the way of God.

The bible is rich in God's word, it is alive as we prepare for the coming of our savior. In both readings today, we have Mary proclaiming the greatness of the Lord. And Hannah giving her Son back to the Lord in the Temple for him to live the rest of his days as consecrated to God.

Both these woman teach us something special about the children born to them. One teaches us to the gift of motherhood and her sacrifice to consecrate her child to God. And the other her undying service to God by helping another in need for her to witness the truth.

Each in their way have given back to God a treasured gift of life. How many have blessed their children upon their birth and consecrated them to God as a gift to him for giving them this precious gift. At baptism we do give our children, but upon their birth or even while in the womb, do we treasure the bundle that is within us and pray for a faith filled birth for our family. This life is a gift and filled with love from God for without him our life would have nothing.