You are not alone; God is always with You!
Monica Lacouture was born and raised in Colombia, South America. She moved to the United States in 1995, where she and her husband, Fernando, married and were blessed with three children—Daniel, David, and Christina, whose unwavering faith became the inspiration behind Build the Faith.
Although raised Catholic and educated in parochial schools, Monica describes much of her adult life as that of a “lukewarm” Catholic. That changed unexpectedly in late 2012 when she attended a retreat and had a profound personal encounter with Jesus. She had no idea at the time how much she would come to rely on this renewed faith just three months later, when her daughter Christina was diagnosed with terminal cancer.
Throughout Christina’s battle, Monica’s faith deepened, sustained by her daughter’s extraordinary trust in Jesus. In 2016, inspired by Christina’s unwavering faith, Monica and Fernando founded Build the Faith. As President of the organization, Monica feels blessed to carry forward Christina’s legacy, spreading faith and hope to others.
As I stand at the doorstep of the third week of Advent, I come before God to seek his guidance and wisdom and to reflect on my journey thus far this season.
In the silence of my soul, I look back on these initial days of Advent. I see the flickering candle of hope that illuminated my path that first Sunday of Advent, reminding me of the light that Christ brings into my life. I acknowledge the moments of joy and the challenges that have shaped this season for me. I Look back to the promises I made God at the beginning of the season and see that I have not kept most of them. My initial thoughts are of sadness and shame for not having the fortitude and the will to withstand the trials or temptations for him. I tend to be my worst critic and focus on my failures. I forget that Jesus understands what I am going through and is always there beside me. Then I recall the words from the Pauline Chapels that I have seen many times, “Do not be afraid. I am here with you, I will enlighten you, live with a penitent heart.” These words reassure me and help me to feel secure in God’s love and give me the fortitude to continue my journey.
During the joyful preparations and the busyness of the world around me, I yearn for a change of pace — a change in my heart — to shift my focus from the material to the spiritual, from self‑centeredness to Christ-centeredness. I find myself asking God to let the remaining days of Advent be a season of transformation in my life, where my thoughts, actions, and intentions align with the true meaning of his coming, “To give us life, life in abundance.” (John 10:10)
May your Word, Lord, be a source of inspiration and renewal. Guide me to prepare not only my home, but more importantly, my heart for your arrival. May the gifts I offer be the sincerity of my love, the warmth of my compassion, and the commitment to live in accordance with your teachings. In these moments of reflection, grant me the grace to let go of distractions and ego‑driven desires. Open my eyes to recognize the needs of others and empower me to be a source of comfort and joy for those around me.
As we anticipate the celebration of Christ’s birth, let the essence of this season be a reminder of God’s unending love and grace. Let us allow God to make us a vessel of his peace, compassion, and humility. Let us surrender ourselves to his transformative power, trusting that this Advent will be a journey, not only towards Christmas Day, but also towards a deeper connection with Christ. You are not alone; God is always with you!
Wishing you all a Blessed and Merry Christmas.
Jesus, I trust in You.
Photo Credit: Ray Shrewsberry
