For Advent listen to Fr. Al Lauer's "Daily Bread" radio program on the Internet. There are rich teachings each day to help you prepare for Christmas. You can listen online, download in MP3 format or subscribe to the podcast.
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Friday, December 7, 2012, St. Ambrose
Isaiah 29:17-24, Psalm 27:1, 4, 13-14, Matthew 9:27-31
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/120712.cfm
CONFIDENTIALLY
"Jesus said to them, 'Are you confident I can do this?' " -Matthew 9:28
When Jesus came at the first Christmas, He came as the Fulfillment of the old covenant, of the law and the prophets (Mt 5:17). During this first week of Advent, the Church shows us how Jesus fulfills the amazing prophecies of Isaiah.
When Jesus came at the first Christmas, many had been waiting their entire lives for the Messiah, but still didn't recognize Him when He came. It was as though they were blind to what God was doing. On one hand, they were waiting for God to fulfill His promises; on the other hand, they weren't confident that God would fulfill His promises anytime soon (see Mt 9:28).
In some areas of our lives, we've also been waiting a long time for God to act. It may be the conversion of a loved one, the overturning of an injustice, or the renewal of your parish. God is always active, but we may be blind to it. Are we losing confidence in God because we don't see any sign of His action in this area? The Lord promises fulfillment, saying, "Out of gloom and darkness, the eyes of the blind shall see" what He is doing (Is 29:18).
Advent is a time when we prepare to meet Jesus at His Christmas coming. Jesus came to fulfill all His promises (Mt 5:17). He asks you: "Are you confident I can do this?" (Mt 9:28) "Wait for the Lord with courage" (Ps 27:14) and unwavering faith. Be confident and "ready to greet Him when He comes."
Prayer: Jesus, Messiah, open my eyes that I may see You this Christmas (2 Kgs 6:17) and have confidence in You.
Promise: "Those who err in spirit shall acquire understanding." -Is 29:24
Praise: St. Ambrose, referring to Scripture, wrote: "He who is full, refreshes others." Full of the Spirit himself, St. Ambrose refreshed St. Augustine greatly as he converted from his sinful life to become a Doctor of the Catholic Church.
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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant my permission to publish "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from December 1, 2012 through January 31, 2013
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, June 27, 2012
The rescript is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.
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