December 22, 2022, Thursday of the Fourth Week in Advent-A

1 Samuel 1:24-28

Psalm 1 Samuel 2:1, 4-8

Luke 1:46-56

“I rejoice in my victory.”  1 Samuel 2:1

“…my spirit rejoices in God my savior.”  Luke 1:47

Lord, the time of giving is about here. We will celebrate with our generosity the relationships we have in our lives. So much joy comes from this season of giving. You are generous all year round not just one day in December. When Hanna’s prayer for a child was answered she responded in faith, joy and gratitude.  She put God’s gift of her child in service of him. She did so not grudgingly but joyfully.  Mary too joyfully recognized the extent of God’s favor on her. Both women received God’s generosity and placed their gift and themselves in the service of the Giver. Hannah, once barren, was blessed with five more children.  Mary would become Queen of heaven and earth. Lord, which of the gifts from you can I offer back to you? Lord, help me to let go of whatever it is that you desire from me. Is it my time, a unique talent or a possession?  Is it my heart?  I trust in your love and your perfect will for me. I offer you, dear Jesus, all I have and all I am.  Amen.