Monday of the First Week of Advent

Reflection Questions

"Come, let us climb the Lord's mountain!" What mountains are we "climbing" in our lives right now?  How is the journey upward bringing us closer to God?

"...may we walk in his paths."  How are we following in God's ways?  Have we strayed from the path of love and compassion, and if so, how do we walk in his path once again this Advent season?

"They shall beat their swords into plowshares..."  Do we have an eagerness for bringing about peace?  Is this a time when we can seek forgiveness and peace from God and with others in our lives?  How can we seek more peace around us during Advent?

"Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof, only say the word and my servant will be healed."  How often do we turn to God and ask for healing from the brokeness in our lives?  Do we turn to Jesus in our time of need or try to solve things on our own? Do we have trust and faith in Jesus' ability to heal us?  How can we show our humility and ask for Jesus' healing light to penatrate our darkness?

Prayer

Lord, we begin this Advent journey with a desire to climb Your mountain, to walk in Your paths, and to grow ever closer to You during this four weeks as we prepare for Your coming.  Come anew in our lives this year.  Help us to be more at peace with ourselves and with others and extend kindness towards all.  Teach us to be humble and deepen our trust in Your healing power as we walk in the light of Your love.  Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord! 

Scripture

First Reading: Isaiah 2:1-5

Psalm 122:1-4bcd, 5-9

Gospel: Matthew 8:5-11

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website