4th Sunday of Advent

by David Lins  |  12/24/2023  |  (Being) Catholic Matters

In the past, I’ve used the Christmas bulletin to address the amazing folks who often only join us for Christmas, Easter and special occasions. I do this because our family isn’t complete without them. But this Christmas, I’d like to do something a bit different. I want to dedicate this column to those of you who have attended Mass faithfully over the past year.

God sees those of you with physical ailments. Those of you pushing walkers up the long, sloped courtyard. Those of you with arthritis that hurts too much to shake hands. Those of you who hurt just getting out of a chair, let alone making it to the pew. Those of you with one of a thousand different chronic conditions that no one sees. And yet you come because you don’t want to miss a meal your heavenly Father has invited you to.

He sees those of you sitting alone. Those of you missing someone horribly. Those of you for whom the church itself is a hard reminder of yesterday’s companionship. Those of you who share your lives with another who does not share what is most important. Those of you for which this has always been your cross. And yet you come because you understand that you are a vital and irreplaceable member of God’s family.

He sees those of you who are tired. Those of you who corral your entire families to get to Mass (and sometimes even during Mass). Those of you who just need a break. Those of you whose minds can’t focus because of the million hats you have to wear. Those of you breaking your bodies in an effort to provide for your families. And yet you come because you recognize that he understands your distraction and exhaustion, but is still honored by your presence.

He sees those of you who feel spiritually numb. Those of you who haven’t felt inspired in some time. Those of you doubting, but have no one to share that with. Those of you who wonder why God seems to speak to everyone but you. And yet you come because you know in your heart the Mass isn’t just about what you get, but what you bring.

Finally, he sees those of you in emotional pain. Those of you fighting addiction. Those of you struggling with to heal old wounds. Those of you fighting with despair every waking moment. And yet you come because you know the church was created by God to be a lifeline for you.

And if this column didn’t spell it out, God isn’t the only one who has seen you. Thank you, Our Lady of Joy, for being such an inspiring family of Catholics.