Scripture Passage: 

"I do not want to send them away hungry."  Matthew 15:32 

Reflection:  

Advent is not only a season of preparation but a time for self-mortification.  This may seem pretty morbid to think of Advent in this way.  We might think this means  that we have to  fast to an extreme, or undertake some self-flagellation etc.  But, penance means doing self-less acts for God to atone for our sins and to show Him how much we love our Lord.  

We do not have to start big on this ascetic practices.  

In my case, I've decided to wear a skirt so I can conquer the sins of pride that typically torments me.    Each time, I put on a skirt instead of pants, I remind myself that this is a re-current sin that I must surrender and remove from my life.  

Another could be eating leftover meals when you have a tendency to throw food.  

Another acts of self-mortification is listening to stories of  the people God brings you each day instead of running away from  them.  In the process, you ask God for the gifts of patience. 

You could also omit eating out and using that money to donate to the poor.   

You can never out give God.  The more you give yourself to others, the more you will understand that this is the way God designed you to live your life on earth. 

Prayer:

Lord, teach me to be generous.  Grant me the grace to receive you this Advent more frequently in the Eucharist.  I want to commune with you.  I desire to know your Divine Heart so I can love others like how you love them.  Help me to see the poverty of the souls You bring to me.  If they are poor, let me alleviate their financial worries.    If they are emotionally in despair, grant me the grace to give them joyful hope.  Amen.