December 14, 2012 
Memorial of Saint John of the Cross, priest and doctor of the Church
Saint of the day
Saint John of the Cross (c.1541-1591)
Saint John of the Cross, a 16th-century mystic, was responsible for reforming the Carmelite Order. He was a person who lived an austere life, renouncing many of the things of the world. John was a man of intense prayer who often prayed to Jesus as his Savior and had great dedication to the cross of Christ. (Taken from "Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.")
Reflection
Today we need to be saved from the materialistic values of the world. We are bombarded with “things”—things we want for ourselves, things we want to buy for others. How can you simplify your life as you prepare to celebrate Christmas? (Taken from “Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.”)
Prayer
Lord Jesus, empower us to simplify our lives as John of the Cross did. Strengthen us to remember poor people at this time of year and to use our resources to bring joy to their lives. (Taken from “Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens”)
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 185
Place in Year: Advent
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: White
Daily readings
Reading 1: Isaiah 48:17-19
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 1:1-2, 3, 4 and 6
Gospel: Matthew 11:16-19
View complete readings on USCCB.orgMeditations
Meditation for Gospel
Human beings can be contrarian by nature. That is to say, we can be so stubborn that we refuse to be satisfied - even by they things that might make us happy! Maybe you are mad at a friend, and instead of reconciling, you want to "stay mad" - even when they invite you to your favorite movie, make your favorite food, or go to your favorite store. You refuse these things because you'd rather "stay mad" than enjoy your friend, and the things you love doing. In the same way, the people of Jesus' time refuse to be satisfied by those who come in the name of God. When John the Baptist fasts from excess food, they believe there is something wrong with him. When Jesus, on the other hand, eats and drinks freely, they think he is gluttonous. What would satisfy these contrarian people? Jesus points out their stubbornness, and concludes by telling us that even if we refuse to acknowledge the good thing in front of us - and we find excuses not to be satisfied - our stubbornness will be proven unfounded.
