Prepare

The WORD today (See http://usccb.org/bible/readings/120113.cfm) reminds me that we should prepare for Christ’s coming.

They say that Christmas is celebrated longest here in the Philippines. As early as September, or when the “-ber” months come in, we hear Christmas songs being played on the radio, and even on malls. Then even before the first week of December, gifts are already being given. We also have lots of Christmas dinners, reunions and celebrations. There are also a lot of weddings during Christmas season. Truly a long and festive event.

However, this does not necessarily mean we celebrate the real meaning of Christmas. All these are external, superficial celebrations and commemorations. Today, God is reminding us to really prepare for Christ’s coming, which we also commemorate this season when Christ came as a baby for us.

Superficial preparation should not be the end. We should also prepare inside of us.

Aside from cleaning our homes for visitors this season, we should also confess and make peace with others as we clean our hearts to receive him. Aside from decorating our homes with Christmas themes , we should also decorate our lives and hearts with good works done to others. Aside from feeding our relatives and guests during Christmas parties, we should also do our part to feed the hungry, and give time to those who need help. These things should go hand in hand.

May we remember that if we truly want to prepare for Christmas, it should not only be superficial, but needs to go deeper.

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Lord, I pray that you help me prepare my life for you. may my preparations not be all superficial, but go deeper as I prepare my life for your coming. May I make the most out of these four Sundays so I may feel the real essence of Christmas. Amen.

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-