On Final Approach...

I am a huge fan of flying and of the Space program.  As a plane gets near its destination the pilot will come on the loud speaker and announce that the flight is nearing its end, and the plane is on its decent toward the airport.  When the plane is near the airport the pilot will call out that the plane is on final approach and then the plane lands.  Well we as a Church are on final approach to the celebration of the Nativity of Our Savior Jesus Christ.  I just got back from a penance service in Thermopolis.  There are three penance services left in our deanery prior to Christmas.  I also witnessed one of the three final practices of our children who will be prayerfully leading us in our reflection upon the Christmas story.  I'm reminded of many parish plays where the practices leave parents, teachers, directors, and pastors thinking, "This isn't going to work!  I hope a disaster is not looming!"  It has been my experience that kids and youth always rise to the occasion and it goes well.  We are called to make final preparation for our decent into the mystery of Jesus' incarnation and birth!  Like passengers on a plane fastening their seat belts, stowing their trays, turning off electronic devices (which by the way is good advice for every mass and event at church!) and putting their seat backs in the upright position; we are called to do all we can to dispose ourselves of the graces that God is seeking to grant us during the Christmas season and all year.  There is still time for us to make things ready.  There is still time to sit in silence and reflect upon our desire for union with God and reconciliation with others.  We can still implore God's mercy and forgiveness for our world and our country.  What a joy to know that God is with us in the person of Jesus and the Holy Spirit that unify us to our Father in heaven!  Yet, the empty creche in the manger scene is still a call to us to make room for HIM in our hearts and in every relationship!  "This is your pastor...We are on Final Approach, please prepare yourself for Christmas!"