December 13 — Feast of Saint Lucy
The second week of Advent closes today. What are our hopes for Advent, and what are the elements of darkness with which we grapple?
Our Gospel passage follows immediately after the transfiguration. Peter, James, and John witness Moses (representing the Law) and Elijah (representing the prophetic tradition) both speaking with Jesus. The transfiguration affirms Jesus's mission, including his suffering, death, and resurrection. This dark news bothers them.
The first reading is a eulogy for Elijah, who prepared the way for the Messiah, as did John the Baptist. What dark news challenges us…loss of a job, a divorce, or a cancer diagnosis? Today's Gospel is an invitation for us to have a role with John the Baptist in preparing the way for Jesus in our lives, as well as in the lives of others.
"Lord, give me the courage to overcome my fears and see that you are our hope in darkness occurring in our lives."*
Carl Middleton, D.Min., M.Div.
CHA Ministry Identity Assessment External Reviewer
*Irish Jesuits. Living Space, part of Sacred Space. "Saturday of Week 2 of Advent, 2025."
Pause
How can you be like John the Baptist, preparing the way for Jesus?
Pray
God, who is hope, shine Your light in our darkness so that we may continue to build Your kingdom. Let us be reflections of Your brilliance, always working to make Your goodness known. In Your Holy Name we pray, Amen.