First Sunday of Advent
Theme: Creation
Symbol: The Earth
Prayer of Ven. Bruno Lanteri
Almighty and Eternal God, I (name), although most unworthy, but encouraged by your compassion and infinite mercy, and by the desire of serving you, offer before the Most Holy Virgin Mary and all the Court of Heaven, to your Divine Majesty, this day, and all my thoughts, words and actions in it. I humbly beg of your infinite goodness and mercy, by the Blood of Jesus Christ, that you choose to accept this offering in the odor of sweetness, and that as you have given me the grace to desire and to make this offering, so also you grant me the grace to fulfill it. Amen.
O Virgin immaculately conceived, put into my heart those things of your Son most pleasing to him. Amen.
Scripture: Job 12:7-10
But now ask the beasts to teach you, the birds of the air to tell you;or speak to the earth to instruct you, and the fish of the sea to inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of God has done this? In his hand is the soul of every living thing, and the life breath of all mortal flesh.
Reflection: God sustains you and all things in existence at every single moment. Every thing in nature around you “speaks” of the creativity of God. Every breath you take in is a new confirmation that God sees you, knows you, sustains you, loves you. Every breath out is a new opportunity to thank him, praise him, love him. What will you do with your breaths today?