Advent: Catholic ReflectionsShembull

In Advent, we spend time shopping and preparing to feast at Christmastime. Christmas cakes, mince pies, and puddings. We bring in wine, beers, and eggnog! We gather together, where we can, with those we love - we take care of one another. Our Bible readings today tell of two different feasts. Isaiah tells us of the banquet of "rich food" and "fine wine" which the Lord invites us to. Here the nations will gather and the Lord will comfort us and restore us to fullness of life in him. Matthew's banquet is quite a different affair. No fine wines and rich food, simply loaves and fish. Those gathered together are the sick, the disabled, and those who care for them. Jesus is concerned for them and provides for all their needs performing this miracle of multiplication. It reminds us, of course, of the eucharistic feast we are invited to participate in each time we celebrate the Mass. Perhaps, this Advent, take the opportunity to attend Mass more often.