Friday December 13th: Come, Lord Jesus!

Be ready and open to God’s mystery.

Matthew 11:16-19

Jesus speaks to a crowd about the generation of His time, comparing them to children in a marketplace. He describes a society unable to recognize God’s presence, no matter how it is revealed— whether through John the Baptist’s austerity or through Jesus’ engagement with all people. Jesus laments their indifference.

Advent is a season that prepares us to receive the Lord. The Advent prayer: “Come, Lord Jesus” expresses our desire for Him and our welcome of Him, no matter how He comes to us. This is a season that invites us to look for the signs of His coming. We cannot be like the people in Jesus’ parable who resist or miss the signs of God’s presence among us, or who complain for no reason.

Advent challenges us to be open to God’s mystery. He may be present in the austere practices that we engage in, or He may be present in the joy of friendships and celebrations. God is free to come in whatever way He chooses. Be ready and open to God’s mystery.