Advent: The meaning of Advent in our lives

Introduction

In the readings for Advent we meet phrases that make us stop and wonder. Phrases that speak of the spirit of spring; swords beaten into plowshares; to begin turning the soft earth for planting. During these four weeks before Christmas, we are given a challenge by the prophets - Isaiah, Jeremiah, John the Baptist and even in the readings from the apostles, to open ourselves to a deeper revelation of God's mysterious presence. This will only happen in the "waiting" stance. Is not Advent than, an invitation to wait for the Lord?

Scripture: James 5:7-8

Now be patient, sisters and brothers,
until the Lord's coming. Think of a farmer:
how patiently he waits for the precious fruit
of the ground until it has had the autumn rains and
the spring rains!
You too have to be patient;
do not lose heart, because the Lord's coming will be soon.

Reflection

Have you ever had an opportunity to watch a farmer prepare the soil for planting? How he watches and waits in expectation, contemplating with joy the new life that will spring forth from that earth. Farmers know how to wait and watch. The prophets remind us over and over during this advent season "Wait, Be watchful in prayer!" We are all farmers - I learn to wait and in the waiting learn that this is my time to turn the soil of my heart, allowing the dirt of my past to be washed away and letting myself be transformed bit by bit each day as God's words are planted and take root. Then I am able to let in how much God loves me, for it is in silent waiting that God reveals Himself. I yearn for God's growth during these days so that I will recognize Jesus as he comes to me this Christmas. This waiting is done in faith and trust . Mary invites you and me to wait in joyful expectation with her. Her faith was a loving response to the unknown. She invites us to keep vigil with her during these days so that our eyes and hearts can be opened to the real meaning of Christmas.

Questions to Ponder

What "cobwebs" am I invited to remove this Advent in order that Jesus will be born anew in my life this year?
As I wait with Mary, what seed in my heart will rise up to be shared and to bring peace and joy?
How will I live today that God's message will reach out to those people whose lives I touch?

Prayer

"Maranatha; Come Lord Jesus, come"

For other prayers, see this page