Reflection
As I reflect on the upcoming Christmas season and the hustle and bustle surrounding our daily lives it's always nice to look back and grasp what really is important. Advent provides us with this opportunity.
Our family traditions growing up in Ireland -- both my wife and I -- were centered around 'getting ready for Mass'. Bath on a Saturday, clean clothes and prayers on Sunday. The Quinn/Seenan attendance at Mass on Sundays is a tribute to our Catholic faith and family tradition passed down from our parents and grandparents. The excitement and anticipation of Christmas Day with toys and turkey and family altogether never gets old.
Today's first reading highlights much of the wisdom that comes from the Holy Spirit and keeps me focused on my commitment to God and identity as a Catholic. The deeper meaning of peace, harmony and acts of giving shines through in the Gospel as John the Baptist prepared the way for the coming of Jesus by baptizing many who were repenting for their sins.
One of my favorite prayers that comes to mind at this time of year is the Serenity Prayer:
"God, give me the serenity to accept the things that I cannot change, the courage to change the things that I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."
Brian Quinn
Head Coach, Men’s Soccer