When we humbly submit to our God’s mercy and forgiveness, our lives become lightened. It’s reminiscent of what we often hear in recovery and have said out loud: we are addicts and are powerless. Yet, when we admit our powerlessness, our pain and suffering are lightened by our gentle master, Christ.

Today is the memorial of Saint Ambrose, a man who is famous because he baptized and mentored the man who would eventually become Saint Augustine. Saint Ambrose dedicated his life to study, service, and the love of Christ. He renounced his worldly ties to fulfill his vocation to spread the gospel and defend the faith, giving us a wonderful example of a man who carried the “lightened” burden of Christ’s love into the world.

Reflection Questions

• Have you accepted our Lord’s offer to rest within Him and take up His “easy yoke” of love, forgiveness, and mercy?
• Saint Ambrose lived a life that was entirely given over to the Lord. What parts of your life, faith, or recovery have you not handed over to the Lord? How can you take steps to do so this Advent?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Isaiah 40:25-31
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 103:1-2, 3-4, 8 and 10
Gospel: Matthew 11:28-30

Reflection by Aaron W.