Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Advent December 23, 2003 O Emmanuel, Desire of the Nations, Savior of All People! Scripture: Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24; Luke 1:57-66 Reflection: "Now, I am sending a messenger…" - Malachi 3:1 Malachi tells us that the Lord will come soon and will send a messenger to us. Elijah in the Old Testament and the parade of New Testament messengers beginning with John the Baptist assure us that God lights our path with people and events when we least expect. When days look dark and I cannot see the light I must remember: that is when Emmanuel is most present. This past summer when I was in Peru, I received a phone call that my sister had passed away. The distance and the thought of my not being able to attend her funeral created a void in my heart. I felt that I had made the right decision about going to Peru when my sister was ill. I just thought she would be there when I returned. Several days passed. One evening I received a phone call from the sisters in my local community. Each sister's voice was so consoling to me, and I felt the peace of God's presence with me. I not only received one messenger but a total of ten. What a gift! Suggested Action: Today, be aware of Emmanuel - God among us. Be aware of who will bring you a message of hope, peace or love to illustrate God's omnipresence in your life. Sr. Maureen Therese Harun, IHM Scranton, Pennsylvania

Be assured that God lights our path with people and events when we least expect. Graphic: Sr. Donna Korba, IHM