Monday of the 3rd week of Advent

Jeremiah 23: 5-8    Mathew 1: 18-24

Theme: Waiting for the Lord

In the 1st reading of today from the prophet Jeremiah, he presents a message of hope to the Israelites who were going through a difficulty at time.  A message to strengthen them and encourage them that their situation is going to change, and things will become better for them again. This was at a time when people lost hope, because of their pain and suffering. The message of the prophet Jeremiah was timely, because it was very necessary to strengthen the faith of the people as they await the manifestation of the prophecy of the prophet Jeremiah.

The message of the prophet Jeremiah is also very relevant to us in our own time, especially during this season of Advent, as we await the coming of Christ; whether at Christmas or his second coming. It is an opportunity for us to look towards the future with hope and trust in God, knowing fully well that whatever you are passing through now in your life, is only a phase and will definitely come to an end. Make this message your own, and handover that situation in your life that seem to be hopeless into the hands of God and allow him to take control. Remember, we serve a faithful God, and he will always fulfil his promises and the prophesy of his prophets. Whatever he says he will do, must surely come to pass.

Let your faith be strengthened today, that God has a personal interest in that situation that you are presently going through in your life, and by implication, everything will end to the glory of God and for your own good. This is not the time for you to lose hope in God, it is rather the time to trust in God and get closer to him, trusting in his promises in your life. Just like the promises of God was fulfilled in the lives of the Israelites, it will also be fulfilled in your own life. Be strong in your faith and continue to do your best, while you await the fulfilment of God’s promises in your life as a child of God.

The ability to wait for Gods appointed time, is a gift from God. So let us pray today for the grace to wait patiently for the fulfilment of God’s plan in our lives. May the Lord bless his words in our hearts, in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit, Amen. Peace be with you.

 

Monday of the 3rd week of Advent, by Fr. Jude Ifeanyi Ifezime, C.S.Sp