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Easing from Journey

By Jamendo (track 16)

https://www.jamendo.com/en/track/643145/easing

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Heartsong from Inner Music

By Madeleine Doherty (CD1 track 2)

Instrumental harp music based on Madeline's meditations. www.madeleinedoherty.ie

Shen Khar Venakhi from Crux Vocal Ensemble

By Crux Vocal Ensemble

Crux is a gathering of voices on the Atlantic fringe of Europe in the historic city of Dublin. www.cruxvocalensemble.com

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Saturday of the second week of Advent

Opening Prayer

Dear God, I hear you saying, “I am with you always”. I take these words to my heart, assuring me that you will never leave me and that you are here in a special way as I rest in your presence.

Scripture

Isaiah 41:10

Do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be afraid, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you; I will help you;
I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.

Reflection

Be not afraid. I remember a call at the door years ago; I gently opened it to see young men in suits who were trying to ‘evangelise’ me.   I barely gave them time to open their mouths, when I said I’m trying to hold on to my own faith, I was afraid of hearing their message because it might influence me. We are living and working now in a society with many faiths and none. I have come to understand that there are many paths to God.  I have found my home by staying close to God, I am mindful of Jesuits who accompanied me with their peaceful presence, who accepted me as I was.  I now feel secure enough to share our human journey together.  I want to hear what the spirit is saying rather than keeping the door closed, and now I open it to at least respect and engage with our fellow human beings.  I am trying to be God’s hands and feet in the world, spreading hope and support and allowing the face of God to work through me. People must be drawn to him through us. Acting out of a place of love instead of fear. A lamp is not meant to be kept under the lampstand (Matthew 5:15). A light by nature exists to illuminate, to reveal our path ahead, wherever we go or whatever we do, trusting that this light is given to them also.

Reflection Prayer

Lord, calm my fears and open my heart to your presence in all people.
Teach me to listen with respect and recognise your light in all those who seek you.
Help me to walk gently, to act from love, not fear, and to rest in your words: Be not afraid… I am with you.

Concluding prayer

John 14:27

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.