Advent invites us into the holy longing of God’s people—a yearning that stretched through generations as they waited for the promised Savior. Isaiah’s vision of peace and Jesus’ words remind us that God fulfills His promises in His perfect time. Like children watching the window for loved ones to arrive, we keep our hearts awake and expectant. This season teaches us to wait with hope, to pray with trust, and to prepare our lives for the moment the Lord draws near.

This reflection draws us into the beauty of Advent, inviting us to slow down and see the unfolding of God’s plan throughout history. From the ancient prophecies of Isaiah to the coming of the Messiah, we are reminded of the faithfulness of God and His promise to all people. Through the imagery of the root and the branch, and the bold faith of a Roman centurion, Father Luke shows us how Jesus gathers the nations and opens His family to everyone. In Him, each of us has a place on His tree of life and promise, and we are called to trust in God’s grace as we walk this Advent journey.

Fr. Luke Mary Fletcher, CFR, reminds us that every day is a gift from God. Looking back on the past year, he invites us to notice the little blessings—the prayers, sacraments, and moments of love—that quietly shape our lives. Life is unpredictable, and we never know when we’ll meet Christ, so he encourages us to live each day fully, with gratitude, kindness, and a heart open to God’s grace.

Fr. Luke takes us through the dramatic images of Daniel and Revelation, but brings it down to something real for our lives today: God is not distant. He sees what we’re going through, He’s involved in our world, and He walks with us in every battle between light and darkness. Kingdoms rise and fall, darkness pushes in, but God remains—and He fights for us. His victory is already won, and He invites us to stand with Him in hope, courage, and trust.

Fr. Luke Mary Fletcher, CFR, reflects on Thanksgiving and the feast of the Miraculous Medal, reminding us that God’s greatest gift is His grace. Like the one leper who returned to Jesus, gratitude opens our hearts to healing and salvation. Fr. Luke invites us to thank God for the graces we receive, the people through whom those graces come, and especially the gift of the Blessed Mother, through whom countless blessings continue to flow.

Fr. Luke Mary Fletcher, CFR, reflects on how we often look for loud signs or dramatic moments from God, but most of His guidance comes in simple, everyday moments. Just like preparing for Thanksgiving, our hearts sometimes need a little cleaning and quiet so we can notice Him. Fr. Luke reminds us that steady prayer, small acts of faith, and daily perseverance are where God gently leads us. When we stay faithful, even the big challenges won’t shake us—because we’re rooted in Him.

Everything in this world—power, wealth, even the most impressive buildings—won’t last forever. Jesus warned that even the Temple, so grand and sacred, would one day be destroyed. But the Kingdom of God is different—it’s the only kingdom that will truly last. As we near the end of the liturgical year, this is a gentle reminder to not get too attached to worldly things, and to keep our hearts focused on heaven, our true and eternal home.

Fr. Luke Mary Fletcher, CFR, reflects on the courageous witness of the Vietnamese martyrs and the humble offering of the poor widow in the Gospel. He reminds us that real faith isn’t just words—it’s a trust that’s willing to give, sacrifice, and surrender. Even if we’re not facing persecution, we’re still invited to offer God everything, especially in the small, hidden moments of daily life. With God’s grace, we can grow into a love that is generous, fearless, and willing to give Him our whole heart.