What good is it that Christ was born 2000 years ago, if he is not born now in your hearts?

Meister Eckhart

Forgive me, friends, for I've been absent. It's been four months since my last post... FOUR MONTHS! Goodness! Time flies...

First things first - MERRY CHRISTMAS! What a blessed day today is... God took on our human condition... God took flesh in the womb of a woman who believed and loved enough to say yes... God entered our world for love of us. And how blessed are we because of that. Today is a wonderful day for reflection... for gratitude... for rejoicing in the grace of God. At least, that is true for me.

On this Christmas day I find myself grateful for so many blessings. It's been a very full few months since my last post. It's been an incredible time of grace. How could it be otherwise? For the presence of God has been so evident...

For some students at UD it was the most painful semester they've experienced because of a parent's death or other situations that were trying and heart wrenching. Sitting with them, never having the appropriate words, but being present... difficult... But, Christ was made present in those times - in the midst of tears and confusion. God took on flesh.... In the craziness of balancing academic work, community life, and ministry... Christ was manifested. In discernment about the future... confusion in times of decision... Christ took on flesh. In the quiet of an Advent retreat at Gethsemani... the hush of snow... the sacrament of reconciliation and praying before the Blessed Sacrament... Christ was manifested. In times of loneliness and the instability of human friendship... God was enfleshed. In the call to simplify and let go... in the seed of justice and peace taking root within... Christ is made present.

And that's the beauty of this day. God is made manifest. Not only 2000 years ago, but each day and in many ways. It is a cause of joy, indeed!

May this Christmas season bring each of you peace and joy... and the ability to recognize the incarnation of God with each day.

Blessings to all who read this,

Sr. N