Reflections

The month of December is not only dedicated to the Christ Child and to the story of the shepherds, the stable and the Christmas tree.  In the Catholic Church, we will celebrate the Immaculate Conception on December 8th.  In truth, the month of December is dedicated to the Virgin Mary because of this high feast in the church.  The Immaculate Conception brings to mind the picture of a beautiful maiden, clothed in a blue mantle and veil, arms outstretched to welcome the world to Her Son.  This feast is about Mary as a baby as well.  We remember that all life is innocent, without the mark of sin.  Mary kept sinless her whole life.  She is the example of life.

Caryll Houselander described Mary in her work, the Reed of God, as an empty reed that was pierced and played the music of God, bringing all who surrounded the piper into the Body of Christ.  We also must empty ourselves in order to be Reeds of God along with Mary.  Though we will not play as sweetly.  You attain perfection in Heaven with God.

This Advent, let us persevere in clearing our minds and our hearts so that Jesus may live more fully in our hearts, our souls and our thoughts.   And on Christmas we shall rejoice in union with the Saints over the birth of the Savior and of the miracle that entered the world the moment Mary gave birth to the little King.