The second reading for this Third Sunday of Advent says: “Be patient, brothers and sisters.” If this isn’t enough, it is repeated again. Then the example of the farmer is given, showing how he has to be patient as his crops grow. This doesn’t happen overnight. Our own maturing in the Lord doesn’t take place overnight either. Answers to our prayers don’t happen overnight either, at least most of the time. In today’s society, people are more impatient than ever. I hear it all the time in the confessional. We can get fast food, fast service through such companies as Amazon, quick relief by taking certain pills and yet there is so much
of life that takes time: becoming mature, being pregnant, getting job experience, getting an education. When life moves so fast, we miss out on significant events or we do not know how to relax and enjoy the ordinary. I love the custom in many countries of taking a siesta at midday. We have much to learn.
One of our church’s favorite events is this Sunday afternoon at 3 PM – Carols with the Choir. We have many talented musicians here at St. Francis and you will have the opportunity to hear them as well as join them in song. This is a relaxing and inspiration hour to help you enter more deeply in the spirit of the season. A free will offering will be accepted for our music program.
Have you stopped at our Christmas Market in the lobby of the Parish House? There are many beautiful items on sale from Fair Trade countries.
-Fr. Andrew Reitz, O.F.M.