3rd Tuesday of Advent

Think for instance, of first-time parents. Not only are they having a child they are becoming parents forever! The way they treat their child will affect the way he or she relates to God. Although they can tap the wisdom of friends and family, the final responsibility is theirs--quite a tall order. This child will ask some questions for which they will have no answers and present needs that they have no idea how to meet. This new vocation will drive them to depend on God in a new way, even as it fills them with joy and happiness.

The angel (Gabriel) reminds us to keep our eyes on the joy set before us, just as Jesus did (Hebrews 12:2). God never gives us a challenge without providing the means to meet it. All we need is patience and trust.

meditation from: The Word Among Us