# The Day Is Near
*2015-01-01*

> Bill reflects on the Advent reading from Romans 13:11‑12 and a quote from Pope Francis, inviting listeners to feel the approaching light of Christ’s birth.

## Opening Prayer and Scripture

Good afternoon. This is Bill Young, and welcome to Prayer and Lunch. Today we hear the Advent reading that Pope Francis highlighted: “The day is near. Salvation is nearer to us now than when we became believers. The night is far gone, the day is near” (Romans 13:11‑12).

## The Birth of the Savior

Dear brothers and sisters, we now celebrate the birth of the Savior, the Christ, the Lord, in the world. Let us pause before the child of Bethlehem, allowing our hearts to be touched. May we not be afraid that our hearts will be moved; rather, let us welcome the tenderness of God.

## God’s Loving Caress

We need God’s caress. His love does not harm us; it gives us peace and strength. God is full of love, and to Him be praised and glorified forever. He is peace.

## Being Peacemakers

Let us ask God to help us become peacemakers each day—in our families, our cities, our nation, and the whole world. May we be moved by God’s goodness.

## Christmas as Encounter

Christmas, which is fast approaching, celebrates the encounter between God and humanity. In the person of the infant Jesus, that encounter is fully realized. Even those who are not Christians feel summoned by the message of Jesus’ birth. May each of you experience this mystery of love intensely and be deeply inspired.

## Closing Prayer

Jesus, help me.

*The approaching day of Christ’s birth calls us to open our hearts to God’s peace and become peacemakers in the world.*