MASS READINGS:

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew 11:16-19

Jesus said to the crowds: "To what shall I compare this generation? It is like children who sit in marketplaces and call to one another, 'We played the flute for you, but you did not dance, we sang a dirge but you did not mourn.' For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they said, 'He is possessed by a demon.' The Son of Man came eating and drinking and they said, 'Look, he is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.' But wisdom is vindicated by her works."

REFLECTION: " But wisdom is vindicated by her works."

Day 13 of Advent

Most mothers remember getting their daughters ready for their ballet recital. Money was spent, tutus were fitted, and the makeup was put on. I thought my daughter was the cutest on the stage but it soon became evident that one student stood out. It was not so much the gracefulness and the coordination but this student was listening to the music. She had captured the melody and was able to dance, responding and flowing with the notes. She lived and breathed the music. The rest of the students spent their time looking for their parents or enjoying the dress up with the frilly outfits.

In today's world, we want to be with the beauty of the moment. What are we listening to and what are we responding to? At work do we get caught up with the boss' demands and the work load? At church do we present a picture of sainthood, always praying, following all the rules and volunteering a lot? At home are we mean, angry or demanding to our spouse or children? Do we act differently depending who we are with or do we respond to the music of the day, no matter what?

Are we listening and seeking out the beauty of God's music? Are we trying to live as if Jesus was walking side by side with us or His heart was one in ours? May we respond to the call of God at all times, flowing with His love and His Spirit. Heed the message, "But wisdom is vindicated by her works."

God Bless You