Do you remember the No. 1 television character of all time—it was Archie Bunker, from the show, “All In The Family.” Archie was famous for being an exceedingly conservative blue-collar worker who was often exasperated with his wife Edith’s opinions. If Edith got too exuberant, Archie would shout, “Stifle, Edith! Stifle yourself!” Today on “Rejoicing Sunday”, far from being told to “Stifle!” we are being invited to jump for joy at Jesus coming very soon. Edith Bunker’s open spirit is something we could learn a lot from in Advent, actually. She let herself be taken over by a spirit of exuberance and childlike joy at the simplest things. Archie called her naïve; but, in spite of living with a grumpy, critical guy, Edith was wise and resilient. She kept her faith and spirit of wonder in every situation. St. Paul agrees with Edith today: “DON’T stifle the Spirit!” To be who we really are created to be, we need to let the Spirit of God’s love flow freely through us and out into the world around us. Not being grouchy or cranky or passive with people—but letting our energy direct our spiritual convictions to create Godly activities in the world. Sounds simple? But we often treat the Spirit like a tame puppy, not even expecting the miracles we pray for. St. Paul knows the true, terrifying power of asking the Spirit to move. The Spirit will always take us out of a comfortable center, and onto the edges of life. REALLY live in each present moment of your life this Advent—by letting the Spirit breathe in you.

Note: Confessions are heard every Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. at St. Thomas More and 1:00 p.m.– 1:45 p.m. at St. John Capistran. Additionally, confessions will be heard on Wednesday, December 16th at 7:00 p.m. at St. Thomas More.