WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23
Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24; Psalm 25; Luke 1: 57-66
In today's Gospel, Elizabeth and Zechariah refuse to let others define who their son will become. While those around them expect the child to bear his father's name, they faithfully choose the name God has already given him: John. Before he speaks a word or fulfills his mission, John is first known, loved and called by God.
The same is true for us. We are each known, seen and loved by God, and so is every person we will encounter today. Advent reminds us that we build God's Kingdom when we choose to see one another through God's eyes rather than through assumptions, labels or circumstances. Every person bears a dignity that precedes anything they have done or anything the world says about them.
In Catholic healthcare, this vision has transformative power. When we recognize each person as beloved by God, compassion comes naturally, listening deepens, and the Kingdom unfolds in ordinary, sacred moments.
Today, may we have eyes to see as God sees, hearts to love as God loves, and the courage to recognize the divine in every person we meet.
Dan Ensell
Senior Vice President, Mission
Mercy
Pause
What can I do today to help someone feel seen, valued and loved as God sees, values and loves them?
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.