Friday of the Second Week of Advent / Our Lady of Guadalupe
Gospel: Matthew 11:16-19
Be Like Children and Learn to Discern

At times, we are like those children: outwardly we may seem pure and act in a most holy manner, yet deep in our hearts we refuse to reconcile with God for the sins we have committed, feeling perfectly at peace with all that we do. We may even regard those who live each day in accordance with Christ’s teachings as fools (cf. Mt.11:18). Moreover, through our carnal lens, we look upon those who always proclaim the Gospel to us and in all places in keeping with the Savior’s instructions, thinking that they are friends of public sinners (cf. Mt.11:19) rather than friends of God. As a result, we remain under the dominion of sin and death, not under the grace of God. We are led to death by the impulses of our flesh, instead of embracing life and peace through trusting in the Holy Spirit of God and following His guidance.

Today, the Church celebrates the Optional Memorial of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which reminds us of this truth: we must learn to entrust ourselves fully to God. Amid the vicissitudes of earthly life, through contemplative prayer, we should listen to the Word of God and the dialogue that God establishes with our souls deep within us. With concrete actions, we are to fully do the will of God and live out the joy of the Gospel, so that those around us may also be filled with joy and hope and walk with us on the pilgrimage of hope.

©Totus Tuus 2025
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025