Gospel Reflection
Third Sunday of Advent Sunday, Dec 12th, 2021 A reading from the gospel according to Luke (3:10:18).
Third Sunday of Advent, Cycle C Fr. David Rosenberg Institute for Spiritual Direction "I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” Luke 3:16 In this passage, John the Baptist calls us to repentance and conversion, with clear undercurrents of the consequences for failure to do so. But even through the undercurrent, John's message through Luke was one of "good news" to the people. The Gospel of Luke, in absolute concert with the other Gospels, makes it clear that John the Baptist is “submissio,” i.e. conforming his life to the mission of Jesus, as all Christians are called to do. (see John 3:30 “He must increase. I must decrease.”) John baptizes with water, but Jesus will baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire. In humility, John states he is not worthy to serve as a servant to Jesus, even to the most menial of tasks of unfastening his sandals. John the Baptist’s words about judgment are a clarion call, but should not be taken in an overly negative way. They are simply words to the wise to follow the way of the Lord and to daily seek to improve where improvement is needed. As we break open John's message, we are given the good news of salvation for those who seek to live according to the will of God. Judgment is no threat for those who right-order their lives; in fact, it will be a moment of validation for them and for their way of life, as chaos gives way to order, evil is destroyed, and God's will triumphs. Reflect on this passage through the lens of repentance, conversion and metanoia. (i.e. a rebuilding and healing of the soul; a profound, spiritual, transformation through conversion) This might be a good time to review the EXAMIN prayer by St. Ignatius of Loyola, a method of reviewing your day in the presence of God. Here are the five steps to the EXAMIN:
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Are you a person who often finds yourself listening to the concerns of others who choose to confide in you? Are you a person interested in spirituality, prayer, and learning more about God’s ways in your life and in the lives of others? If your answer is yes, it may be that God is calling you to explore the ministry of being a Spiritual Director. This program will prepare you to accompany others on their spiritual journey. The Institute for Spiritual Direction is offering an 18 month internship in Spiritual Direction. The program is open to interested women and men, clergy, deacons, religious and laity. This program is flexible enough to fit into a full time professional’s schedule. Click here for additional details and inquiries... Your participation or personal encouragement of another will be appreciated. |
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Dec 8 |
Hope Crossing Ministries in Eaton Rapids, Michigan will host ISD for a Healing Mass at 6:30 pm. Join your fellow ISD students, alumni and friends on this special evening for a Mass of Healing on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception at Hope Crossing Ministries house, 2670 South Michigan Road; Eaton Rapids, Michigan. Visit their website at http://hopecrossingministries.org for details and a map. |
Dec 15 |
Cohort 5 Graduation: All are invited to celebrate graduation for cohort 5 on December 15. Plan to arrive (LOCATION To Be Determined) by 4:00 to be ready for Mass at 4:30. This will be followed by a reception and festive dinner to celebrate the event. Please join us. |