In this daytime
We’ve made it to Christmas Eve! Though we are hours away from Christmas, the readings for today are not meant for the vigil Masses, which are after 4:00 pm and filled with sticky children and grandfathers who elbow you out of the pew they’ve been saving for 45 minutes. These words from 2 Samuel and Luke are designated for the Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Advent. A day, I discovered, that goes largely overlooked.
In preparing for this reflection, I discovered that there are no parishes in my area, and maybe my diocese, that offer a daily Mass on December 24. Priests are busy preparing for the afternoon and evening of Christmas vigils. Altars are decorated and overflow spaces set. It was surprising to discover how easily today can be overlooked.
Our work shows us that in the business of the world, it is easy for those in need to be overlooked. Seniors often feel forgotten. The uninsured feel excluded. Children of the undocumented live a life in two worlds, wondering where their home will be if a knock comes at their door. Our role is to make sure, even in the chaos, that those in need are seen, known, and loved.
How easy it would be to miss the Psalm response of the day, “Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.” It’s been a hard year at our social service agencies. Still, there is goodness to recognize and sing about. Our savior will be born tonight, but in this daytime let us remember those who are overlooked.
Devyn Buschow shares a birthday with today’s reflection date, which is also often overlooked. Luckily, she gets to sneak this fun fact into her Advent reflection each year. She currently serves as the Senior Manger of Parish Engagement at Catholic Charities Dallas.