My dear brothers and sisters, as we step into this first week of Advent, our readings invite us to prepare our hearts for the coming of the ...
My dear brothers and sisters, as we step into this first week of Advent, our readings invite us to prepare our hearts for the coming of the King. To help us reflect, let us focus on three words that start with the letter H: House, Humility, and Healing.
First, House. In the Psalm, we responded, "Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord." Advent is a journey home. Isaiah speaks of a time when God will create a protective canopy over Mount Zion—a shelter from the heat and rain. The Church is that house, a place of refuge where we gather not just to be safe, but to be holy. We are called to make our own hearts a "house" fit for Jesus to dwell in.
Second, Humility. In the Gospel, we meet a Roman Centurion, a man of power and authority. Yet, when he approaches Jesus, he does not stand on his rank. He says, "Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof." This is the same prayer we say before receiving Communion. The Centurion teaches us that the only ticket we need to enter God’s presence is a humble heart. We cannot demand God’s grace; we can only beg for it with confidence.
Third, Healing. Because of the Centurion’s humble faith, Jesus grants healing to his servant instantly. But notice the connection: the healing didn't happen because the Centurion did a great deed, but because he trusted in the authority of Jesus’ word. "Only say the word, and my servant shall be healed."
Today, ask yourself: Is my heart a welcoming house for Jesus? Do I approach Him with the humility of the Centurion? If I do, I can be sure that His healing grace will be at work in my life.
No comments