Second Sunday of Advent

We are the crooked roads in need of straightening. We are the mountains and chasms blocking God's way. And by we, I do mean all of us, not just a handful of trigger-pullers and their accomplices. We all embrace tribalism. We all use violence to fix our problems. And our hearts and souls become rougher with every step down those paths. So what are we to do? Love our enemies. Acknowledge both killers and killed as our brothers and sisters. Mourn them all. Grand plans will never heal the world's ills, only the grace of hearts and souls transformed by repentance and forgiveness stands a chance. Yes, "the Lord has done great things." They became one of us, to show us the splendor of our family. And if we are truly "filled with joy," then we will celebrate every sibling, even those we fear or dislike.

Baruch 5:1-9; Psalms 126:1-6; Philippians 1:4-11; Luke 3:1-6

Second Sunday of Advent

Philippians 1:4-11; Luke 3:1-6

"Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths." The Incarnation approaches, but can he find her way into your heart? Advent is not about gazing dreamily at the creche, waiting for Jesus to fall down the chimney and stuff our stockings with grace. No, there are obstacles in God's way. Whether we put them there, or just acquiesced while society did it for us, we need to remove them if we want our lover to find their way to our door. Love never just happens; it is always a choice.