In our present times of suffering, be they Omicron,  Climate change,  Political uncertainty, Poverty, Illness or death; our hope, our certainty rests in the person of Jesus, in his ‘Great Sign’, his ‘Great Hour’, when he died and rose again and is now with us, truly with us, until the end of time.

Our baptism in Christ, invites us to uphold the life of each one in a dignified world.

‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favours!’ In other words, the long awaited moment had come, the world had changed forever - even if it didn’t feel any different.

Jesus is good news, and Mary hastens to share her good news with her cousin, Elizabeth.

Just as John was chosen to recognise Jesus as the Messiah, we too, this Christmas morning, can pray that we will recognise the child in the crib as God coming among us out of a love beyond all telling.

This week as we take another step on our Advent Journey may we do whatever we can to prepare a way for the Lord, whether at home, in school or at work.

Let’s not miss Advent’s joyful and it’s hopeful message.

In what ways can I prepare a way for the Lord this Advent as I get ready to celebrate the birth of Jesus at Christmas?

We end the Church Year, with all of its worries and anxieties, not in fear but with boundless hope. Christ is Risen and now reigns as the true King.