Word to the Wise
Thursday, December 3, 2015 - 1st Week of Advent - Thurs
[Isa 26:1-6 and Matt 7:21, 24-27]THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2015 ST. FRANCIS XAVIER, SJ [Isaiah 26:1-6 and Matthew 7:21, 24-27] "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven." [Matt] Throughout his ministry, Jesus makes it clear that to follow him one must do more than piety. His teachings are meant to be put into action. To use a sports metaphor: there are to be no "armchair Christians." Jesus' own metaphor refers to buildings with a solid foundation which is laid by listening to the word of God and acting on it. Advent offers the opportunity to renew our "intentionality" in regard to listening to the Word of God in the scriptures and then putting it into action. Those of us in ministry know how hard this season can be physically and emotionally. Winter is upon us and the homeless feel it keenly. Food figures prominently in celebrations and the hungry have none of it. Immigrants arrive with little more than the clothes on their back and need a hospitable welcome. Where do these needs find mention in the Word of God? Check out Matthew 25:31-45. Listen to it and act accordingly. Advent will never be the same! AMEN