Deacon Michael Bickerstaff: Advent Reflection—Rejoice in the Holy Spirit with the Lord

By Deacon Michael Bickerstaff, Integrated Catholic, Dec. 3, 2019

Deacon Michael Bickerstaff is the Editor in chief and co-founder of The Integrated Catholic Life.™ A Catholic Deacon of the Roman Rite for the Archdiocese of Atlanta, Deacon Bickerstaff is assigned to St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church where he is the Director of Adult Education and Evangelization.

An Advent Reflection on the Scripture Readings at Mass…

“In that same hour he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, ‘I thank thee, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to babes; yea, Father, for such was thy gracious will.’” (Luke 10:21)

Humble. Meek. Childlike. These are the qualities of the ones whom God has chosen for His Kingdom.

The seventy disciples Jesus had sent out returned in joy to share the great news of the success of their mission. Rejoicing in the Holy Spirit, Jesus then gives praise to His Father, sharing in the disciple’s joy.

It was not to those who were highly educated and most esteemed for their wisdom and learning that the Gospel first took root. It was to the poor in spirit and humble. What was taking place had been long anticipated, desired and watched for by the prophets of old. Yet, the spiritual leaders of Israel did not recognize the signs or the visitation to them by their God.

Jesus explicitly teaches his apostles this truth and thereby reminds them of how blessed they were. Jesus chose them. And He also chose you… and me. He invites us to live in His kingdom and to share in His beatitude. ….

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