AdventJourney - Day 28

Reflection

In just a few short hours, we will celebrate Christmas, the glorious feast of the Incarnation.

For many of us our families, relatives and friends will surround us. This is the celebration of the birth of the Messiah for which we have been preparing throughout the season of Advent.

This is indeed the moment, when we need to continue our commitment to the poor and the displaced people of the world. For many people, this is a time of year when cozy fires and family that surround a Christmas tree is rather spent searching for shelter and food. Often alone, feeling surrounded by darkness, and without anyone to care for them. But God reminds us that this is the time when the dawn from on high breaks upon us anew.

This light we call Jesus illumines the darkness, and offers life after death. God became flesh and thus restored humanity to the image of the Creator. This is the time for us to take significant action to restore the dignity of every person. So begins anew our determination to do the works of justice and prepare the way for peace.

Prayer for the Poor and Needy - Author Unknown

You came to give honour to the least, those forgotten, overlooked and misjudged.
You came to give first place to the last, those left behind, misunderstood and undervalued.
You came to give a warm welcome to the lost, those who are orphaned, abandoned and destitute.
Help us to be your ears to listen to their cries.
Help us to be your voice speaking out love and acceptance.
Help us to be your feet walking beside those in need.
Help us to be your hands to clothe, feed and shelter them.
You came for the least, the lost and last of this world.
Lord, hear our prayer. Amen.