Prayers Advent Reflections

Thursday - Feast of Saint Francis Xavier

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3 | FEAST OF SAINT FRANCIS XAVIER
Isaiah 26:1-6; Psalm 118; Matthew 7:21, 24-27

St. Francis Xavier offers one of the more interesting quotes I have seen from a Saint: "The better friends you are, the straighter you can talk, but while you are only on nodding terms, be slow to scold." This is not a typical Advent quote, but I think St. Francis was on to something. How many times have I just "nodded" at someone?

Sometimes we nod because we have nothing to say, or perhaps we don’t really know someone. Sometimes we nod because we do have something to say, and it would be better left unsaid. Other times, we hope we only get a nod. We live in divisive times. But St. Francis wasn’t implying that there should be no encounter, just a more thoughtful one, moving us toward an unexpressed hope for more.

Advent is a season in the Christian tradition that nudges us toward hope, peace, joy and love. With the birth of Jesus, we know that God's relationship with the world is more than just a "nod." God has offered us an encounter, an opportunity to restore and build relationships.

James Puglisi, DMin
Director of Mission Integration
Villa St. Francis Assisted Living

Pause

During Advent, how can you move beyond a nod, to that of an encounter?

Pray

God of the Universe, Creator of Light and Dark: You have formed us together as one body to proclaim Your peace. Draw us beyond our own narrowness to recognize Christ within ourselves and one another. Help us to choose unity – humility over pride and patience over anger. Make in us Your dwelling place, O God, that we may be worthy builders of Your Kingdom and true instruments of Your grace. Amen.