Are we ready and willing to enter into this time of preparation leading up to Christmas? Entering into the season of Advent, requires a maturity in our faith. God became one of us so that we may become one with God at the end of our lives. We require preparation and a concerted effort to make this Christmas more than just a family gathering and opening of gifts. The sacrament of Confirmation is also about maturing. Saying that I am old enough to agree and confirm that I want to be a disciple, and to live a life modeled after Jesus Christ. Your parents and godparents wanted this for you, and they brought you here today so that you can be the best Catholic that you can possibly be.
During these times of preparation, we are asked and tested to choose to make time for Jesus. Just as Mary and Joseph could have given up, they didn't, and they remained faithful. They passed all the tests, and we too are called to persevere and to grow in our faith, ultimately through our whole lifetime. How will we deal with the business over Christmas? We can decide to make room for Jesus, and to make Him the focus. You are the innkeeper of your heart, and to say we don't have time for Jesus would be similar to the inn keepers who closed their doors to Mary and Joseph. Let's help and support each other to mature and grow in our faith during this Advent. Jesus is the reason for Christmas. Jesus is the reason we celebrate Confirmation. Jesus is the reason we are here today. Amen.
