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From: Mary Zimmerman
Come Emmanuel Come. We sing that often now in church. Father Jim said we should pray it many times a day during the Advent season.
As we’ve started to get into the Advent season I’m anticipating our guest list. I’ve come up with a figure of about 30 people I need to provide food and seating room for (that may not be easy, but well worth it) and trying to be Santa’s helper all at the same time. Now I have also invited Jesus. After all it’s His birthday, the main reason for the Christmas season. Come Lord Jesus Come.
Now I’m wondering just how do I prepare for my heavenly guest? Clean my house, I know, but even more he’ll be looking at my heart. Oh not so much if its beating exactly in rhythm, I know I have some defect but I’m not convinced I need a pacemaker at this age. You don’t really want to bother with anything you don’t really need. I realize its about time to clean house and dispense the clutter. That includes sprucing up my heart (soul) as well. After all this is what Jesus has on His Christmas list - mankind’s loving, clean hearts. Now I’m trying to figure out just how to get rid of the same old habitual sins and replace them with virtuous habits (oh, I know, don’t sweat the small stuff.) When the winds of temptation are whirling around looking for an open crack to enter in, I cry out, “Come Lord Jesus Come and bring St. Michael with you.”
“St. Michael the Archangel (an angel of the highest rank), defend us in battle; be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do you, oh Prince of the Heavenly Host, by the power of God cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.” Then call upon your guardian angel as well. We all have one, you know. Ask them to ever walk beside us, to light the way and guide us to our heavenly home. Guardian angels constantly kneel before the throne of God with one eye on us, just waiting for us to ask for their help.
Now we get down to the nitty gritty. It’s our own free will that’s constantly getting us in trouble. We just have to bring that forward to match and blend in with God’s will (Father knows best) and that ain’t always easy. On our own we can’t do it. “Come Lord Jesus Come,” give us the desire to change and we are on our way. God can do all things, you know, He will surely help you.
I’m trying to get an earlier start than usual, a jump start on the Christmas rush, sending out cards, etc. My daughter Lynette will again furnish us with delicious Christmas cookies. Thank you, Lynette. I’m quite sure Harley will help as well. Thanks, Harley (my granddaughter).
But put all the hustle and bustle to the side. What’s really gonna matter at the end of Advent (Christmas)? I know very well it will be if I have spent adequate time preparing my gift for Jesus. The spirit is so willing, but the body is so tired. Again cry out “Come Lord Jesus Come.” He will lead the way to the infant Jesus in a manger, as your eyes meet, hand Him His present, the one you so carefully wrapped in prayer, with three special bows to represent love, giving, and forgiving.
“Jesus, I give you my heart. Happy Birthday.”
P.S. Aviana, our great-granddaughter,
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