Making Room for Jesus

Fourth Sunday of Advent December 19, 2021

As Christmas fast approaches and Advent is drawing to a close, let us remind ourselves of the importance of this liturgical season. Advent is a time of preparation for the coming of Christ at Christmas as well as His final coming at the end of time. However, the great saints of the church also speak of an intermediary coming, the coming of Christ to our present lives. Let us take a moment to ask ourselves, if the Lord showed up in our life today, would there be room for Him?

As stewards, we often face the temptation to let our works of charity become a life of volunteering instead of a spirituality of service. Our many works may begin to take precedence over our relationship with Christ which should always remain as the source of our stewardship. This Advent, as we are waiting for Christ, Christ is also waiting for us. Jesus says in the Book of Revelation, “Listen! I am standing at the door, knocking; if you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to you” (Revelation 3:20). He is waiting for us to open the door and let him in.

We can let him into our lives as stewards by realizing it is not ourselves ministering to our neighbour, but the love and presence of Christ within us. St. Teresa of Calcutta says it best when she proclaims that, ‘it is Christmas every time you let God love others through you. Yes, it is Christmas every time you smile at someone and offer them your hand.” St. Teresa of Calcutta fully embodies the spirit of stewardship that makes room for Christ to love others through her. Let us strive to let Jesus into our lives as we approach Christmas.