RBWords

     On the church liturgical calendar, today is New Year's Eve!  Tomorrow will be (including the Vigil this evening) the First Sunday of Advent!  For the English speaking world, the day will mean the beginning of the first liturgical year with the new Roman Missal.  No doubt that can inspire some "resolutions" for a lot of folks!  I, for one, am determined to make the best of it, whatever that will be!  The scriptures for the past couple of weeks have emphasized the importance of short term resolutions made in the light of a long term goal that has no definite date.  A mundane comparison might be losing weight now so that one can stay healthier and live a longer life.  One could also resolve to be more intentional about Advent and its spiritual significance of anticipation as we begin once more to tell the year long story of Jesus' life, death and resurrection.  On the material side, one could decide to ignore the frantic advertising about the latest "toy" and consider gifts that can have a long term impact on someone's life.

     Although it could be said that "New Year's resolutions" are made to be broken, perhaps we can challenge that statement by our determination to realize our short term spiritual goals with the long term growth in mind.  Maybe we'll develop a new depth of prayer, learn something about the way the church celebrates the liturgical year, love and forgive family, friends and neighbors, or give more time to serving those who will have a hard time during the next few weeks.  Happy New Year!  Happy Advent!   AMEN