“When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit” (Lk. 1:41). What a truly beautiful statement. In the presence of Mary, now pregnant with Jesus, both Elizabeth and the unborn John are filled with joy. As we draw closer to Christmas, these final days of Advent serve to remind us of the true joy we should embrace and share. The joy of the Lord’s presence is our strength. If we truly know and love our Saviour, then the joy we see displayed in today’s gospel will also be ours. Lord Jesus, may I never allow anything to take away the real joy I have in You. Through Your Spirit, may I celebrate the strength and comfort You supply in every experience of life. Amen.

Blessings,

Fr. Howie

READINGS

http://usccb.org/bible/readings/122118.cfm