Always remember this: life is a journey. It is a path, a journey to meet Jesus. At the end, and forever. A journey in which we do not encounter Jesus is not a Christian journey. It is for the Christian to continually encounter Jesus, to watch Jesus, to let oneself be watched over by Jesus, because Jesus watches us with love; he loves us so much—he loves us so much, and he is always watching over us.
To encounter Jesus also means allowing oneself to be gazed upon by him. ‘But, Father,’ one of you might say to me, ‘you know that this journey is horrible for me; I am such a sinner, I have committed many sins…how can I encounter Jesus?’ And you know that the people whom Jesus most sought out were the greatest sinners…. And along the way, Jesus comes and forgives us.”
—From Pope Francis’ Homily, Pastoral Visit to the Roman Parish of Saint Cyril of Alexandria, First Sunday of Advent, December 1, 2013
As a spiritual exercise for the day, focus your attention on the fact that Jesus is right beside you, gazing lovingly at you and encouraging you as you go about your day. Be mindful about how this reality affects your behavior throughout your day. How does having your best friend, your healer, your Savior, and your biggest supporter by your side alter the way you encounter others, be it family, friends, strangers, or those people you struggle to love?
—From Advent and Christmas Wisdom from Pope Francis by John Cleary, Liguori Publications (826467). To order, visit Liguori.org or call 800-325-9521.