Sat., Dec. 5: Isa 30:19-21, 23-26; Matt 9:35–10:1, 5a, 6-8

The kingdom of heaven is at hand! In the Lord’s Prayer we say, "Thy kingdom come," and we should be careful to realize that we are praying for a present reality, not something in the far future. We are preparing to celebrate the birth of Jesus, who embodies the rule (kingdom) of God by his perfect submission to God’s will. When we welcome him into our hearts and lives, we are saying, with Mary, "Be it done to me according to your word." Let us use this time of Advent well, to pray and reflect on what needs to change in our attitudes, priorities and choices so that God’s kingdom may be firmly established in us.

*Lord, establish your rule in my heart and my life.