December 5, 2012 
Wednesday of the First Week of Advent
Saint of the day
Saint Sabas (439-532)
Saint Sabas was left in the care of his aunt and uncle as a child. His aunt treated him so wickedly that he ran away to live with another uncle when he was only eight years old. These two uncles got into a bitter dispute over who was entitled to the money from Sabas's estates. The constant fighting was too much for young Sabas, and he sought refuge in a nearby monastery. When he was 18 years old, he left the monastery to learn more about living a life devoted to solitude. At first, he was told that he was too young to live life as a hermit. As he grew older, he was allowed to spend more of his time in solitude and prayer. Sabas was an inspiration to many, and soon gained a large number of followers. He was hesitantly convinced by a bishop to become a priest so he could better serve his monastery. Sabas still felt called to life in a hermitage, and often left his followers for a few days of complete prayerful solitude. He spread the Good News throughout Palestine, and brought many back to the Church.
Reflection
At times, we may have disagreements or harsh words with our family members. We may not treat one another as we should, and it can hurt every family member, especially the youngest members. Ask the Lord to help you remember that, even if you are in a hurtful family situation, God always loves you as part of his family.
Prayer
Loving God, thank you for loving me as part of your family. Help me to always be aware of your love for me. (Taken from “Good News Day by Day: Bible Reflections for Teens.”)
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 177
Place in Year: Advent
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Purple
Daily readings
Reading 1: Isaiah 25:6-10a
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6
Gospel: Matthew 15:29-37
View complete readings on USCCB.orgMeditations
Meditation for Reading 1
Saint Francis Xavier was a Jesuit missionary to India and Japan. He brought the message of Jesus to people who had never of Christ. Because of Saint Francis Xavier's efforts, there are Christians in India and Japan today, although they are a small minority of the people, Missionaries make great sacrifices when they go to foreign countries. They have to learn the customs of the people, which are different from their own. They have to build trust with the people to prepare them to hear the word of God. If you were a missionary to another country, what would be the hardest adjustment for you? (Taken from “Take Ten – Daily Bible Reflections for Teens”)
