The Holy Way

December 8 Monday the Second Week 

(Also the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. See next post.)

ISAIAH 35:1-10; LUKE 5:17-26

Click here for the complete text of today’s readings.

Advent is a waiting time. What are you waiting for?

Is it for “a way out” – of desperation? Or for “a way up” – to union with God? The way is the same for both.

Isaiah says, “A highway shall be there. It shall be called the Holy Way. It shall be for God’s people… no traveler, not even fools, shall go astray.”

It is the baptismal way. At Baptism you “became Christ” (Catechism of the Catholic Church no. 795). Live as Christ. Learn his words as a disciple. Proclaim his values in action as prophet. Share the divine life within you by expressing it as priest. Renew society as a steward of his kingship.

You will see his truth: “blind eyes shall be opened.” You will understand his words: “deaf ears shall be unstopped.” You will be empowered: “the lame shall leap like a deer.” To the paralyzed Jesus says, “Stand up and walk.”

He is the Way, the Truth and the Life. “Be strong, do not fear!” If you want a way out – or a way up,  “he will come and save you.”

So what are you waiting for?

Pray as Christ’s body: 

“Lord, do this with me, do this in me, do this through me.”

Practice: 

Read and reflect daily on his words. 

Ask before acting: “How does this reveal Christ in me?” 

Express physically to others your faith, hope, love. Work for change.