Anticipation has been the overall movement of the Advent Season.
We have experienced having a baby come into our families, whether our own child or someone in our family unit. We are filled with much anticipation, the father or someone in the family makes sure the gas tank is filled up. Some parents can’t wait; they want to know the sex of the baby before the child is even born. Anticipation is a wonderful feeling filling our hearts.
Today’s gospel is all about the anticipation, the Holy Spirit at work for Mary and Elizabeth. Mary went in haste to visit her cousin Elizabeth, whom she knew was pregnant in her old age as told by the Angel. Elizabeth was so overjoyed to have the mother of our Lord come to her. The baby in her womb leaped for joy too. “Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry: Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb”. These words are in the “Hail Mary” prayer.
Pope Francis has declared a Jubilee year of Hope, for 2025. As I read his letter, there is going to be so much movement of the Holy Spirit. There will be prayerful movements from this letter and opportunities for pilgrimages in our area. Stay close; keep your ears open. Hope for the Youth is found within the Pope’s letter.
A few days ago, I had the opportunity to visit the Wasse-abin High School as a Nokomis with my granddaughter. The elder for the High School, along with the students, held a gathering for the Winter Solstice Dec. 21, 2024. A student spoke about the shortest day of the year, and the longest day coming up June 21, 2025. The elder spoke about all the blessings and gifts from the Creator, and prayers were said as the attendees held onto their traditional tobacco. He ended off with “aww zhwenmishnong Zhemindoo”, three times. I felt the prayer “Have mercy on us”. I was moved, being present with all our High School Students. As I walked in I noticed many wearing black clothing, many are so tenderhearted with shyness, I can see some students with leadership skills. I was thrilled to see the young boys sitting around the big drum with two mentors, teaching them about the drum and the songs, and their responsibilities. Very powerful example of what is to come. Anticipation and Hope for 2025.
I would like to end off with a short reflection from the 1st reading from the prophet Micah. The Lord God will bring us to peace as we are told: “we shall live secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth.” During this Advent Season we have travelled with HOPE, PEACE, JOY AND LOVE. Our Savior is on his way. Are you ready to be filled with the Holy Spirit and leap as high as you can for all the gifts of the Holy Spirit?
Merry Christmas to all.
Margaret (Tish) Manitowabi