Yes, as the title states, an immigrant woman becomes visible: I, myself, and all those who are immigrants, particularly “the caravan of migrants currently in Mexico.” Yes, they have become visible because they have shown the necessary strength to leave their beloved country, the strength to show the world the desperate situation in which the majority of Honduran people live.
Today’s readings invite us to encourage one another to change our ways to prepare for the coming of Christ. What does this message mean for us, followers of Marguerite Bourgeoys, who patterned her own life on the role of Mary in the Visitation and in the early church? Mary’s role, as they gathered to await the coming of the Spirit at Pentecost, was to be a source of encouragement to all in the early church.
After Thanksgiving, I start to think about Advent and Christmas immediately. I love Advent! Maybe it’s the purple and pink candles (I love colors!) or maybe it’s the anticipation leading up to Christmas, but I have always enjoyed Advent. I am usually ready to take a break from the busy-ness of life, shift gears to a more reflective mode of anticipation and preparation, and simply ponder the joy of the all that comes with the celebration Christ’s birth at Christmas. With this peaceful longing, I sat down to read this Sunday’s readings and prepare my thoughts. At the age of 43, I know that I have heard all of these readings before, many times, and yet they still surprise me. This week, these readings shook me out of my “peaceful preparation” mode and woke me up a bit.
