December 13, 2015
Third Sunday of Advent
Saint of the day
Saint Lucy (c.283-c.304)
Saint Lucy is a beloved saint in Rome and Sicily. She died a martyr around the year 304. She gave herself totally to Christ in all things. The reading for her feast points to pure speech and service to the Lord. "At that time I will change the speech of the peoples to a pure speech, that all of them may call on the name of the Lord and serve him with one accord." (Zephaniah 3:9) (Taken from "Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.")
Reflection
All of us can clean up our language and be more careful of how we talk with one another. Avoiding vulgar language is one way to show respect for others, and it certainly leads others to see us as people who call on the name of the Lord and serve the Lord with our whole being. During Advent, make a concerted effort to be a person of pure speech. (Taken from “Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.”)
Prayer
Bless the words of my mouth, O God, that I may resist the desire to tear others down. Help me keep my heart pure and my words supportive, encouraging, and hopeful. (Taken from “Good News Day by Day: Bible Reflections for Teens.”)
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 9
Place in Year: Advent
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Violet
Daily readings
Reading 1: Zephania 3:14-18a
Responsorial Psalm: Isaiah 12:2-3, 4, 5-6
Reading 2: Philippians 4:4-7
Gospel: Luke 3:10-18
View complete readings on USCCB.org