December 20, Fourth Sunday of Advent

Lord, make us turn to You; let us see Your face and we shall be saved.-- Psalm 80:4

Mass readings: Micah 5:1-4 / Hebrews 10:5-10 / Luke 1:39-45

Finding God, and Good, in Others

It's sad but true that we're quick to criticize and slow to compliment. Rather than seeking the kernel of good, we concentrate on the sometimes more visible flaws and foibles of others. On the Fourth Sunday of Advent, Micah's prophecy and John's recognition of Jesus in the womb of Mary challenge us to concentrate on the good within others and stifle our tendency to be critical.

Sometimes the gifts, the golden kernel within a person, is more hidden, but since we're all made in the image and likeness of God, it certainly is present. As we make our final preparations for Christmas, let's give others the gift of our care and attention as we would hope they would give both to us.

Prayer: Jesus, make me more aware of the goodness in others and our world.