“Strengthen the hands that are feeble; make firm the knees that are weak.” We have all been in the shoes of the Israelites in today’s first reading. Feeling abandoned by God, overwhelmed by our enemies and fears, downtrodden, overwhelmed and sad. Isaiah’s words are meant for our hearts: “Hold on to your faith!” A time will come when “the parched land will exult and the burning sands will become pools of living water.” Our God is a God who will never disappoint to those who trust in him. As St. Paul teaches, “ in our weakness we will find our strength.” God is calling each of us to return to him, to put our trust and faith in his saving love. With Mary we lift our hearts in faith: “Let it be done to me according to your word.” Advent calls us to run the race with valor and courage; to persevere in our fidelity to God and his Truth; to hold fast to all that we have come to know and to believe in Jesus Christ.
Prayer: St. Nicholas, be close to us in our need. May we always open our hearts in generous love to our brothers and sisters in faith, especially those in most need. Keep our hearts focused on what lies ahead, our life forever in God’s Kingdom. Give to us, O Lord, a generous and loving heart, after the heart of your Son. Amen.
Action: Bring a word of comfort, support, affirmation and love to someone who needs it. Surprise that person with your affirmation of their identity as a beloved son or daughter of God