Almost Christmas

It's almost Christmas, and the WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/122412.cfm) continue to inspire and encourage us to prepare.

Zechariah, in his canticle in the gospel, knows that his son, John, is to prepare the way for the Messiah. He utters praises to God. He knows God is always faithful to his promises. King David in the first reading, prepared as well for God... so should we.

Pasko na bukas. For others, it's just an extra weekend, then back to work on Wednesday. Others would be having parties here and there, gatherings with friends and family, of course with good food. Others just wish Christmas would be over soon, so that traffic and things would get back to normal. Others, like our brothers and sisters who were affected by the typhoon, are just happy and thankful to be alive this Christmas. However, for others who really took time and effort to prepare for Christmas, it is a very special occasion.

It is not yet too late to prepare. In fact, it is never too late. We still have time to confess, at least when we commemorate His birth tomorrow, our hearts are cleaner. We still have time to help - be it monetary, donating goods, actual presence, and of course, prayers for our brothers and sisters. We still have time to pray. Kahit the past few weeks have been busy with work, gift buying and what have you, we can still prepare our hearts for His coming, we still have time to focus on Him. Long weekend naman, wala nang trabaho.. Sya naman ang pansinin natin. May we never forget to pray and think of Him during parties and merrymaking, kasi birthday nya nga yung pinagdiriwang natin eh.

This Christmas, may we bring others to Christ, and Christ to others.

How have I prepared spiritually for Christ this Christmas season of 2012? What things have I not yet done? What things should I continue doing to prepare for Him? What things can I start doing to prepare my heart for Him?

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for the extra long weekend. Lord, a lot of us spend time with friends and families this season. We celebrate, we give gifts, we have fun. But Lord, help us not forget you. Help us not forget the reason for the season. Ikaw youn, Lord. CHRISTmas is not Christmas without you, Jesus Christ. May we never forget to give back to others, those who cannot give us back what we give, because that is the real essence of giving, that is how you want us to give. May we start, or continue, to prepare for your coming. Amen.

God bless!

In Christ,

-g-