3  December. Advent 1 B. Isaiah. The 1st Advent candle is lit as we pray..  People were beginning to prepare for the holidays and Fr Teddy reminded them not to forget to talk with God while they were away.  Mabel and Joseph were alone in the family home waiting, as holidays had not quite started.  After reading the 1st reading Mabel commented,  “It is interesting how Isaiah dialogues with God.  He doesn’t blame God but states the facts.  We, the people, don’t call on God, but God also has left us to our own devices.  And yet, Isaiah concludes that God is the potter and we are the clay.  So there is a need for us to be together in this situation.” Joseph added, “That is how it is with us and our children.  We moulded them and now have to leave them to do their own thing as they grow up. But still when they come here during holiday time I do feel as if we have some influence still. Thank God for that. In everything we must prepare well and be ready when the time comes.”  

Scripture:  There is no one that calls upon your name. You have hidden your face from us and have delivered us into the hand of our sins. Yet, O Lord, you are our Father, we are the clay and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.    Is 64:3b-8    Pope Francis. The family is the first school of human values where we learn the wise use of freedom.  AL274. Eight years have passed since I published the Encyclical Letter Laudato Si’  I have wanted to share with all of you my heartfelt concerns about the care of our common home. Our responses have not been adequate while the world in which we live is collapsing and may be nearing the breaking point. The impact of climate change will increasingly prejudice the lives and families of many persons   We will feel its effects in the areas of healthcare, source of employment, access to resources, housing forced migrations etc. LD 2.   .  For reflection and sharing.  Share with one another on the value of moulding and shaping of our children within families .  Is that always a good thing?   Are they too free or not free enough?