For the Christian community, the season of Advent is an important reminder for us to bring attention to a reality that - knowingly or unknowingly - God is with us, tá an Tiarna linn.

This may or may not seem important but, what is worth savouring, is the reality that according to Christian tradition, the power and might of God reveals itself in and through the goodness of people.

It is interesting that the two words 'Good' and 'God' are almost identical. So, being 'godly' is not something alien to human nature. In fact, you could say that the one who acts justly, loves mercy, and walks humbly with God (Micah 6:8) is a profoundly spiritual person reflecting God's image and likeness (Genesis 1:27).

Advent invites us to ponder this reality. In a more secular age, when there may seem to be less room in the inn for acknowledging God through public worship, let us bring to awareness once more the goodness that abounds as evidenced in the spirit of people during the present pandemic. In celebrating the Season of Christmas, let us honour divinity in the image of a child, shielded from the harshness of life through the loving care of Mary and Joseph.

So, to prepare for the coming of Christmas:

*Give some time to prayer at home.

*Prepare and advent wreath.

*Get out the crib with only the animals in situ - they were availing of the stable, I'm sure, long before Mary and Joseph made it their temporary dwelling!

The sparkle and festivities associated with Christmas also throws light on a darker reality that exists for so many people - children, their families, and individuals who struggle daily to eke out the most basic comforts in life, namely food, shelter, and clothing. So many organisations work tirelessly to help ease their plight. Let us make a special effort this Christmas, in the absence of many of the traditional means of fundraising, to support them as best we can.

Read some brief details about our Christmas arrangements in the parish newsletter: www.BarnaFurboparish.ie/duilleog

Fr Michael Brennan P.P.