I Believe

Women of Faith:

“I Believe.”

Usually when we see those words around Christmas they are associated with a belief in Santa Claus.

But, I believe, that those words have a far more reaching intention than my “belief” in Santa Claus or even my belief in the “spirit” of Christmas.

Today is the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The reading is God’s asking and Mary’s “yes” to becoming the Mother of our Lord—from Luke 1: 39-47--
Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled."

I remember often telling the kids, “If you don’t believe, Santa/Christmas/the gifts won’t come.” Their eyes would shine in their beautiful childlike faith—even to this day—and look at me to say, “I believe.” (They knew anything less meant no Christmas.)

So as yesterday’s reading proclaims: “Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophetic utterances.” 1Thess 5: 16-24

Do we truly believe? Will we accept “less” than Christmas, less than the message of Jesus’ coming?

Do we believe?

In a God we cannot see: “By faith …he persevered as if seeing the one who is invisible.” Heb 11:27


In a God that is always for us: “If God is for us, who can be against us.” Rom 8:31


In a God that makes everything possible: “For human beings, this is impossible, but for God all things are possible.” Mt 19: 26

Do we pray not just when we “need” him because things aren’t going well, but at all times in praise thanksgiving for all that we have?
And do we show our belief in the decisions we make, in the actions we take, and in the words we speak?

Heavenly Father: I believe that with you all things are possible. Thank you for the gifts of a warm home and family and friends to share it with; for food on our table; for health that allows me to enjoy everything around me; and for the gifts and talents that allow me to serve others. Bless each of us with the patience and perseverance, the strength and the courage to believe in you, especially when the darkness of daily problems tries to overshadow Your presence. Help me to show my belief not just by my words, but by my actions each day. Amen.

May you have the patience and courage to live your life in, for, with and by your belief of the greatness of God and the miracle of Christmas!

Blessings,
Charlotte