Today's society is inundated with messengers of all kinds. Most are assertive and deliberate in their words and actions. Sometimes the loudest voices get the most attention for messages that might not even be best for our soul's well-being. St. Joseph was a quiet, trusting and humble soul who stood in the shadows. He was chosen to be a messenger for us to teach us about virtues that are lasting, but he spoke rarely. Sometimes contemplative actions carry more meaning. If only we remain quietly disposed to receive them will we learn the lessons intended for our souls.

The Christmas season is one of joy found in many family traditions that we embrace both spiritually and secularly. Let us be more aware of the real meaning of "why" we are celebrating Christmas, the "mass of Christ". Let's embrace this joyous time with those things that best influence our good decisions and offer us the most peace.

Scripture as the "living word" of God speaks to us today in ways that make sense of the chaos in our lives. It can provide a path to peace that offers clear directives for navigating those times when life feels like a desert and we are quietly suffering amidst the joy of the advent celebrations. Allowing God to quench our thirst is made more possible when we see the "holy way" by investing our time during Advent in a more prayerful and intimate relationship with Him.

Embracing the spiritual blessings in unfamiliar places with faithful souls that might worship differently than us is powerful. Today, Let's be open to be cleansed of anything standing in our way of loving our neighbor and being more like Jesus!