Reflections from the Heart – December 24, 2023

Fourth Sunday of Advent
by Fr. Ivan Olmo

“Nothing will be impossible for God.” I recall in my youth, in my much younger days, feeling nothing was impossible for me. I was encouraged to think big, to reach for the stars, to imagine all the possibilities, to have a dream and pursuit it. I was lead to believe nothing was impossible for me if I worked hard, continued my education, had faith; these would be the keys to success to achieve my goals in life. I am thankful for the gifts God has given and shared with me. It would be so easy to look back on life, see the accomplishments, and feel a sense of achievement and believe I made it, see nothing is impossible for me. However, the truth is, I am and have been limited in so many ways. At times in comprehension and failing to fully understand situations, intentions and conversations. At times limited in the strength and the ability to endure certain individuals and circumstances. At times limited in having patience with God, with others and even being gentle with myself. I guess somethings sometimes are and can be impossible for me. However, nothing is impossible for God. God is amazing. Who else can create out of nothing, build such an amazing kingdom, forgive for eternity, be patient with every person, every individual and love everyone including enemies and pray for those who persecute God. For some, prayer and forgiveness seem to be impossibilities but with God, nothing shall be impossible. At times, we project our own limitedness and impossibilities on to God. We come to believe others or make ourselves believe that God cannot love us, God will never forgive us, God will never provide for us and that God has abandoned us. Impossible! Nothing can be further than the truth for God is not limited in his love and kindness. His mercy endures forever. His love and kindness, his mercy and patience, his gentleness and compassion are unfathomable. They are forever. God’s possibilities once again opened for us the pathway to heaven. He created Mary in his image and likeness, in his perfection and goodness, without stain or blemish or sin. Nothing is impossible for God. He sent his Son into our fallen world to be like us in all things but sin so that he may offer himself as a spotless, unblemished lamb, bring us light, and get us back to heaven for nothing is impossible for God. So think big, reach for the stars, have faith and believe that with God all things are possible.