Isaiah is clearly speaking to us about the Spirit of God being upon us and speaks about anointing, bringing glad tidings to the lowly and healing the broken hearted. This speaks to us in our many ministries as Dominicans. We are clothed in a robe of salvation as we work for those who are served with injustice - be it slave shops, poor wages and living conditions, and problems in our environment. Our air and water are becoming polluted and farm land is being taken over by concrete buildings. Will there be any land left for future generations on which to play, to walk, to meditate? What if the child Jesus were to be born into this modern day? Would he be born in a broken down shack? A swanky hotel? Would the food given to him be treated with pesticides? Let us think about what we can do for Mother Earth as we prepare for the coming of our God.

Luke's texts remind me of my days as a Franciscan at the hour of Vespers. Mary goes to see Elizabeth. After Elizabeth's greeting to her, Mary proclaims the goodness of the Lord. How do we magnify our God? Do we look at the homeless and the poor as children of God. God has done great things for us - do we return the favor? Truly, Mary's great canticle is food for thought.

In his gospel, John shows us two mriacles, those about the loaves of bread and the fish as well as the walking on the water. What must the apostles have been thinking at the time? Jesus gave the instructions and those present complied. What would we do in the same circumstances? Perhaps simply remember the incredible words: Be not afraid, I go before you always. Come follow me."

Bill Aull, Associate, Hope