Susan Hines-Brigger

My son, Alex, is constantly singing. One time I asked him why he sings all the time and he simply said, “Because it makes me happy.” That’s a good enough reason for me.

Scripture

Jacob called his sons, and said: “Gather around, that I may tell you what will happen to you in days to come. Assemble and hear, O sons of Jacob; listen to Israel your father.

—Genesis 49:1–2

Reflection

I am always happy to have my friends, family, and children’s friends gathered around—a busy home is a happy home. Sometimes, though, we get too busy and forget to invite those we care about into our lives—and our homes.

Recently I saw a slogan that said, “When things aren’t adding up in life, try subtracting.” There is some real wisdom to that.

Angels play a pretty big part in the Christmas story: They announce to Mary that she will be the mother of Jesus, they share the news of Mary’s pregnancy with Joseph, and they announce Jesus’ birth to the shepherds.

As we near the end of Advent, in this week’s Gospel, we hear the story of Mary–very pregnant with Jesus–visiting her cousin Elizabeth, who is also with child.