Deacon’s Corner
Now that we are in the heart of the Advent Season, as we prepare for our Lord’s birth, I want to share these five simple ways to help us be spiritually prepared for Christmas:
Reflect on God’s Blessings – take inventory of the events, celebrations, and milestones that took place this year. (If you need some help, scroll through the pictures on your phone to jog your memory or check your calendar.) Then take time to thank God for the people in your life and the many blessings that you had throughout the year.
Dig into a Christmas Devotional - One way that may help align your heart to His is by reading a Christmas devotional. The beauty of digging into a devotional this time of year is that it reveals beautiful truths that can speak solely to your heart. You can also meditate on the Christmas account in one of the Gospels. There is something sweet and precious about a time you get to slip away, get quiet, and just savor God’s presence.
Simplify your Schedule – This year, before you get bogged down and overwhelmed by all the holiday activities, try to be mindful of what you pencil into those precious December days. So before you say “Yes” to an event, ask yourself, “Will this bring joy to my family and me, allowing us to savor the season?” It is okay to say no. We must be able to recognize what we can do, so when we do participate, it brings joy to everyone.
Be a Cheerful Giver – Here are some things to consider...
Be personal. Think about who you are giving to and invite God to reveal how to truly bless them.
Be intentional. As you prepare a gift, seek to understand their needs, and bless them from that angle.
Be thankful. In knowing that all of our gifts come from God, be thankful for the gifts He gave to you to be able to share with others.
Have the Heart of a Child – When our children were growing up, it was a tradition of ours to drive around the Quad Cities looking at the Christmas lights. We packed up a thermos of hot chocolate and played Christmas songs on the radio as we enjoyed the glowing lights and beautiful sights. As we prepare our hearts for the season of Christmas, I invite you to watch children. See their sense of wonder, their growing anticipation and excitement… see it through their eyes. Being children of God and relishing in the true meaning of what this season means for us, we have the distinct honor of bringing our child-like hearts to God.
May God bless you this Christmas and always.
Dcn. Mike
P.S. This month marks the third anniversary of Dcn. Matt and my ordination. Over these years we were blessed to serve the Sacred Heart parish family in many ways. Whether we are assisting at Holy Mass, training altar servers, visiting the sick and homebound, baptizing little ones, or just helping around the parish, it has truly been an honor for us to serve you. For me my biggest blessing has been getting to know you. Whether we were in a meeting together, spent time in a book or bible study, or even if it was only a short greeting before or after Mass, our encounter together has enriched my life and for that I am truly grateful.