Saturday Reflection: December 15, 2007

The readings today are a reminder that one part of the preparation for the annual celebration of the birth of Jesus is repentance and healing. The Book of Sirach (also titled Ecclesiasticus) reading focuses upon Elijah. In this part of the book, the author directs our attention to the "illustrious men, our ancestors in their successive generations (44:1) .... Their bodies have been buried in pace ... the people will proclaim their wisdom, the assembly will celebrate their praises (44:13-15)."

Elijah called the people to repentance and healing. Especially the royalty of the time. Likewise he was known for the punishments he levied on some. He did all of this to "allay God's wrath before the fury breaks ... and to restore the tribes of Jacob 44: 9-10)."

So, what does this reading have for us today? Perhaps the usual question we hear at this time of the year: "How prepared am I to celebrate again the gift of God the Father to me in the birth of Jesus, the beginning of my redemption?"

Again, as said in several recent postings of this blog, we should rejoice and be happy because our God has gifted us with the forgiveness of our sins. For us who are Catholics, we have this gift made real and available in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. It is there for us to bring into our lives during these last two weeks before Christmas.