Dear John,

How wonderful it is that we are embarking together on the holy season of Advent with all of its reverent anticipation!   

Each Sunday from now until Christmas, I would like to share a devotional inspiration and a set of Scripture readings to help you prepare for a truly meaningful celebration of Christ’s birth.  Today’s readings are:

First reading: Jeremiah 33:14–16

Psalm: 25:4–5, 8–10, 14

Second reading: 1 Thessalonians 3:12–4:2

Gospel: Luke 21:25–28, 34–36

The word that comes to mind as I contemplate today’s readings is longing —and rightly so, for that’s what the Advent season is. It is a season of holy expectation culminating in joyous gratitude for the birth of Jesus Christ, our Savior.

In these challenging times, when kindness, mercy and simple goodness seem to be in short supply, let us contemplate God’s promise for the “righteous Branch of David to spring forth.”    Prayerfully preparing to celebrate Christ’s birth and looking forward to His second coming during Advent should fill us with hope!

Among EWTN’s faith-filled programs to encourage and inspire you this week:

Dec. 3, 5:30 pm.  Advent at Ephesus.  The Benedictines of Mary Queen of Apostles tape a beautiful Advent album at the Priory of Our Lady of Ephesus.

Dec. 4, 6:30 am and Saturdays at 6:30 pm. The Church and the Poor:  An Advent Journey with Father Richard Ho Lung and the Missionaries of the Poor.  Prepare for Christmas with weekly Advent meditations centered on Christ and the Incarnation.

Dec. 8, 9:30 am.  An EWTN Holy Land Experience:  Mary.  Fr. Mark and I reflect on the life of the Virgin Mary as we explore the sites visited by the Mother of God.

I pray that realization of God’s immense care for you, expressed through the gift of His Son, will make your love increase this Advent season for your family, friends and all whom you encounter. 

May God bless you with a Holy Advent,

Father Joseph Mary Wolfe, MFVA

EWTN Global Catholic Network