Candace Adams, Associate Minister
As Franciscans, the Advent season is a perfect time for us to reflect on the most precious gift that was ever given – God’s love. God’s love came to us in the form of a baby – Jesus. Jesus came to us; he was fully human and fully divine. Jesus came that we might know the depth and height of God’s love for humanity.
Throughout his life, he demonstrated countless expressions of love:
- Jesus tenderly invited the children to come to him.
- Jesus raised the widow’s son at Nain.
- Jesus fed the multitudes with two loaves of bread and five fish.
- Jesus touched the leper and healed him.
- Jesus engaged with the woman at the well.
- Jesus healed the lame man who had waited years by the pool at Bethesda.
- Jesus washed his disciples’ feet.
- Jesus died on the cross.
- Jesus restored Peter after he denied him three times.
As Franciscan Associates, we are called by God to lavishly love one another. Jesus offered us a beautiful example of ways to express our love to God and one another.
- Love God – express your praises aloud! Pour out your adorations to the Lord.
- Love God – as the shepherds and wisemen came to worship Jesus, may we also worship the Messiah.
- Love God – spread the good news. More and more people in our communities don’t know the true meaning of Christmas. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, share with someone the wonderful things God has done for you.
- Love others – do acts of kindness. Spread God’s love to every person you meet – greet the store clerk by name, visit with a neighbor, talk to a coworker.
- Love others - write notes of encouragement! It takes only a few minutes to write an uplifting message.
- Love others – pray for others by name. Don’t worry about having the right words. Jesus Christ intercedes for us. God knows our hearts.
When we pray for another person, we communicate, “I love you and I want God’s best for you.”
Friends in Christ, God’s love truly has the power to transform our lives. Let love be your gift to God and others this Christmas.
