by Sister Lynne Marie Simonich
In Sunday's readings, both the Prophet Isaiah and St. Mark encourage us to “speak boldly”. Isaiah says “Cry out at the top of your voice, Jerusalem, herald of good news!” (40:9). John the Baptist cries out to “prepare the way” and proclaim the Good News. We are called, as Catholic Christians, to speak with confidence about our faith. No easy task! John the Baptist not only spoke boldly – his words and his actions cried out about the coming of the Lord.
This Second Sunday of Advent challenges us to bring the Good News of our salvation to others by our words and by our actions. What does that challenge mean for us? Are we willing to share our faith with others? Do our actions reflect our belief in the Good News?
Today we celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary. She, too, is a wonderful model of someone who risked everything to bring the Good News into the world. In a world where there has been so much “bad news”, our challenge is even greater. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we, as followers of the Lord, shared some good news each day? What good news do you have to share today?
May Mary inspire us as we continue this Advent journey.
Amen, Sister! Let's sing out that Good News!