Saturday, December 13, 2025

Luke 1:39–45

Ready or Not

This past week, we spent hours in the Compassion Hub Closet, sorting and hanging clothes, clearing tables, and making room for yet another wave of generous donations. The work felt never-ending. Even when others joined in and helped for hours, there was still more to do. Eventually, I had to stop, not because everything was finished, but because I was simply done for the day.

That feeling isn’t limited to the closet. It’s the same in my office, and it’s the same in Advent. We prepare and prepare, cleaning, organizing, planning, and hoping to feel “ready.” Yet the work is never truly complete. In Luke’s Gospel, Mary doesn’t wait until everything is settled before she moves forward. She carries Christ into the world amid uncertainty, interruption, and unfinished plans.

As we move closer to Christmas, we are reminded that Christ does not wait for perfect conditions. Ready or not, Christ comes. We’re not called to finish everything, but to make space, to show up with willing hearts and trust that God meets us right where we are.

Prayer:
Faithful God, when our work feels unfinished, and our lives feel full, remind us that your coming does not depend on our perfection. Help us make room for Christ with open hearts and steady trust. Amen.