Friday, December 7, 2018

8-Dec-2018 - First Saturday of Advent

I am grateful to the various sites from where I picked up ideas for the write-ups, images and videos that happened to touch my heart while preparing myself and my children on this Advent journey in faith .. I have tried giving credits where I could.. I have tailored the materials accordingly to suit my needs. My sincere apologies if I have not given due credit in all places. - Sabrina D'Mello

The Countdown to Christmas ...
(Credits : https://www.timeanddate.com/clocks/freecountdown.html)


Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception
This feast refers to the conception of the Virgin Mary, free from original sin, by virtue of the merits of her son Jesus.  Through the centuries, the Church has become ever more aware that Mary, "full of grace" through God, was redeemed from the moment of her conception.  Exactly nine months from now, on September 8, we will celebrate Mary's birthday.


Let’s watch the Scriptures Luke 1:18
(Credits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhJEwx9blHk&t=57s)


Reflection
When God finally granted Zechariah his heartfelt desire of having a child, he just could not believe, it was happening and happening when they were well advanced in years. It is not that he does not want to be happy and rejoicing that his wish was granted, but it was too good to believe.  So he sat on the floor asking "Thank you but can you give me a sign to prove it?"  Long ago he had given up the dream of ever being a Daddy. 

God’s great promises often greet us when we are beaten down, discouraged and depressed.
The baby is still in Bethlehem’s manger for you.  Will you pass it by just because you’ve been discouraged by the events in your life?

Christmas is really all about God stepping into our world of disappointment, heartache and failure. He came to share our life of pain and sorrow; He came to give us His life of joy, peace and bliss.



  Christmas Symbol : Mary


(Credits: http://m.gifmania.us/Animated-Gifs-Religion/Free-Animations-Christianity/Images-Virgin-Mary/Virgin-Mary-88806.gif)


Mary did not know exactly what the future would hold on the day she found out she was pregnant, but she knew that whatever it meant, since it came from God, it would be good for her. She was so excited that she began right away singing praises to God for his holiness and for the family she would soon have. She knew this would be the beginning of a new season in her life.

Just as Mary used song to bring in the new season in her life, we are glad that we too have begun this season in prayer and singing of carols daily. 

Prayer
Lord, thank You for the gift of Mary, because her "yes" gave us your Son, Jesus. Help me to imitate her obedience and positive attitude in all I do so that I too may show Your goodness to others. Amen.

Let’s sing along with this carol - 

Mary Did You Know


(Credits: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kcc94dHZ_Ts)

Quiz Time 




Christmas began in the heart of God.  
It is complete only when it reaches the heart of man.

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