3 rd SUNDAY OF ADVENT - YEAR A

12 th December 2004

S: Good morning. Today on this third Sunday of Advent we remember that even in the midst of all our doubts, the message of Christ is a message of Joy!

B: Our Word of Life for today is from St. Matthew’s Gospel – where John the Baptist, who is in prison, sends a message to Jesus. “Are you the one who is to come?”

In the midst of his torment in prison, John looks for re-assurance of who Jesus is and Jesus offers it by saying “Go back and tell John what you see. Tell him of all the healing – the blind can see, the deaf can hear, the lepers are cleansed. Jesus sends back a message of hope, joy and reassurance. Jesus does not want John the Baptist to loose heart.

S: And isn’t it true that in the midst of our doubts and uncertainties in life that Jesus does not want us to loose heart. He wants us to be people of joy and that is why it is so nice to see so many Christmas services being organized and Carols being sung at this time of year. It does bring great joy to the heart when we hear Christmas Carols being sung and even with all the anxiety Christmas brings, they remind us of the true meaning of Christmas.

B: Our reflection this morning is an Advent prayer that reminds us to slow down in this hectic run up to Christmas.

Lord Jesus,

Master of both the light and the darkness,

Send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas.

We who have so much to do,

Seek quiet spaces to hear you voice each day.

We who are so anxious over so many things

Look forward to your coming among us.

We who are blessed in so may ways

Long for the complete joy of your Kingdom.

We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence.

We are your people, walking in darkness,

Yet seeking the light.

To you we say, Come, Lord Jesus.

S: You know I really like that reflection and for many years now I’ve enjoyed hearing it at this time leading up to Christmas. The importance of the ‘quiet space’. Anyway it reminds me to let you know of a new initiative that is taking place in St. Michael’s Church in Denmark Street next to the Pastoral Centre. Every Tuesday a group of people meet there at 6.15pm for a special evening prayer. It’s a quiet space with some music. You are very welcome to go along and join in. Sounds good after a long day a work, to end it with taking some space for yourself.

B: You’ve been listening to ‘Just a thought’ with Brenda Cribbin.

S: And Seamus Madigan. We can be contacted through the Limerick Diocesan Offices at 66 O’ Connell Street.

B: We look forward to your company again next week, so in the mean time, take care

S&B: Byeee……

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