Are you ready to welcome Jesus at any time of your life? - Daily Reflections September 26,2013

PREPARING EARLY

 

Even if the Gospel seems to focus on Herod’s confusion over who Jesus is, its underlying message is about the persons of John the Baptist and Elijah. We recall that these two persons were precursors of Jesus, the ones called to prepare the way of the Lord.

       It is timely that, in a few months, it will be the Advent season once again. And for us Filipinos, Christmas starts this month,  September. The “ber” months have begun. This is an invitation for us to prepare, just as John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus.

       I would remember when I was much younger, Nanay and Tatay were very gracious hosts — they were simply the best! Whenever we had visitors coming, the first thing that would come to their mind was what food to serve, where to let them stay, to whom to introduce them, where to bring them for leisure or tours, and what to give them when they leave. The same thoughts went with unexpected or unannounced visits, only this time, the preparations would be instant. But they still managed to find ways to prepare. And this style of hospitality, I have proudly inherited from Nanay and Tatay. But, why do we prepare, really?

       We prepare for a lot of reasons, but it boils down to our intention to offer what is best. It shows the extent of our love manifested in our preparation.

       The invitation to us today is to welcome the Messiah even if we are not yet ready. Instead of living in denial, just like what Herod did, let us allow Jesus to enter our lives when we are still preparing for His home in us, while still thinking what best to give Him. By doing this, we are giving the Messiah the room to rule over our lives, to change us while we consciously work to improve ourselves. While having a fully prepared heart and spirit is commendable, nothing beats a welcoming, humble self to allow the Messiah in, even amidst chaos and confusion.

       And this disposition of a welcoming heart I will forever attribute to my dear Nanay and Tatay. Fr. Erick Y. Santos, OFS

 

REFLECTION QUESTION: Are you ready to welcome Jesus at any time of your life?

 

Lord, help me to prepare my heart and my life for Your coming. Amen.