"When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, they took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord." Joseph and Mary dedicated their infant child to God. Their faith is a model of holiness for our own families.

"And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father's only Son..." Christmas joy! The birth of Jesus brings much needed light into our world.

"Let us go, then, to Bethlehem to see this thing that has taken place." In the City of David, God's promise of salvation has been fulfilled as the Eternal Word is born of Mary, Jesus the Lord.

"For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Christ and Lord." At his very birth, Jesus of Nazareth, born in Bethlehem, was Savior and Lord. Tonight, we adore the infant who became our salvation.

"Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." Although the Gospels do not record a single word from the lips of Joseph, his faith speaks volumes!

The angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God." Mary, the Mother God, found favor with God through her openness to his will. With the Advent of Christ's birth, we renew our own commitment to follow wherever he leads.

"Rejoice always! Pray without ceasing! Give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus." Our Advent journey is nearly complete. Let us all rejoice!

"Mary said, 'Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.'" On this joyful solemnity, we celebrate Mary's great Yes.

"'Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.' John the Baptist appeared in the desert proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins." To prepare for the coming Lord, we turn from our old way of life to seek the face of God with greater fervor.

"Jesus said to his disciples: 'Be watchful! Be alert! You do not know when the time will come.'" Jesus has promised to that he will come again. Advent reminds us that we are to prepare and to be ready for that glorious moment.