Fr Rob Galea and Danii unpack the Gospel reading from the Second Sunday of Advent, Matthew 3:1-12 and discuss the #howtoadvent activities for the first week of Advent.
Activity- Write and send a physical Christmas card to someone.
Saint of the week- St John the Baptist
Prayer-
Lord,
Advent is here, but so is family tension.
Advent is here, but so are dysfunctional relationships.
Advent is here, but so are old habits.
Advent is here, but gone are people we love.
Advent is here, but old baggage still exists.
Advent is here, but fears surface.
You say, "I see all that, and I can handle all that."
You say, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
You say, "Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid."
You say, "Tell everyone who is discouraged, Be strong and don’t be afraid! God is coming to your rescue…"
What looks unscalable, You boost me over.
What seems unbearable, You bring me through unbelievably.
What can't be managed, You say, "Let down your guard and I will guard you."
Amen.
(Edited from Kelly Balarie's “7 Verses When Relationships Hurt at Christmas", https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/prayer/12-advent-prayers.html