# Embracing the Crowds in Advent
*2008-12-05*

> Bill Young reflects on Rev. James Field’s meditation “A Melody of Hope,” focusing on how we can love the strangers we encounter during the busy Advent season.

## Opening Prayer

I begin with a prayer my aunt’s sister, Mary Teresa, taught me many years ago:

Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, hear my prayers. May the hour of the Incarnation, when the Son was born of the pure Virgin Mary in Bethlehem’s cold night, move us to love. Through the merits of our Savior Jesus Christ and His Blessed Mother, grant our desires. Amen.

## The Call to Embrace the Crowds

The Advent readings this week invite us to welcome the multitude. Isaiah proclaims a new day dawning, a hope that should find a home in our hearts. The voice of God calls us to walk the Way, just as the early Christians in Antioch called themselves “people of the Way.”

In today’s Gospel (Matthew), Jesus travels from city to city, preaching and moving with pity toward the crowds. In the coming weeks, crowds will be unavoidable—whether we are shopping in a mall or simply navigating the streets. Even the most devout Advent observers will encounter hurried, bewildered people.

Jesus had the capacity to go immediately to the person in greatest need, and He asks us to do the same. We can receive those in the crowds into our hearts by offering a smile, a word of encouragement, or a prayer.

## Practical Ways to Reach Out

When you light your Advent candle tonight, remember the gift you have received and consider how you might give that gift to a stranger. If you venture out today, you may see someone nearly swept away by the holiday rush. Take that person into your heart and offer a prayer.

Today's prayer:

“Move me, loving Father, to love the strangers I meet along the way today, especially in this season of Advent. Amen.”

## Resources for Daily Reflections

For those who want to deepen their Advent journey, the National Catholic College of Bishops offers daily readings in text and audio, as well as short video reflections by priests, deacons, and laypeople. I encourage you to visit the site and spend a few minutes each day with these resources.

*Advent challenges us to see every crowded street as an opportunity to share Christ’s love with strangers.*