These reflections are a result of more than 40 years of ministry as a Roman Catholic priest. Most of these years I spent in the Diocese of Charlotte which covers Western North Carolina. Now I am retired, and live in Medellín, Colombia where I continue to serve as a priest in the Archdiocese of Medellín.

Saint Nicholas, bishop, December 6

Thus says the Lord GOD: But a very little while, and Lebanon shall be changed into an orchard, and the orchard be regarded as a forest! On that day the deaf shall hear the words of a book; And out of gloom and darkness, the eyes of the blind shall see. (Is 29:17-24)
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/120624.cfm
Unfortunately today, the promise regarding Lebanon has been turned upside down. Lebanon, just like Gaza, has become a battlefield. But even now out of gloom and darkness, we have hope that “the eyes of the blind shall see.” Today is the feast of Saint Nicholas (270-343), bishop of the early church and patron saint of children throughout the world.