The hustle and bustle of preparing for Christmas is upon us. The world has inevitably adapted to massive on-line shopping. We await the arrival of our carefully selected gifts in hopes of receiving them before Dec. 25.
Another sign of the times is the many canceled flights and travel restrictions due the ripple effects of vaccine mandates. We hope our loved ones will arrive safely to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year!
Advent is a time for expectant Hope!
We are created to live in Hope as we constantly look forward for things to come. Natural hope is wanting good things, such as getting a new job, or recovering from illness. But it’s in Theological Hope we learn to wait prayerfully and grow in confidence to receive grace from the Hand of God. This type of Hope is rooted in Wisdom and Understanding from the mind of God Himself.
“Prepare the way of the Lord” Luke 3:4
In our secular world, we prepare for Christmas by shopping, decorating, and sending greeting cards. We hope to get everything done as we deck our halls and bake the goodies! All this preparation is necessary to add to the joy of our holiday celebration. It fills us with childlike anticipation! Tis the season to be jolly!
St. Luke is reminding us to spiritually prepare for His coming. He recalls the Prophets of Old telling us to make straight His paths and pave the way for Jesus’ arrival. It is time to level our road to holiness and be ready to meet our Lord! With divine hope we might be particularly attentive for blessings of the Christmas Spirit! If Scrooge can have a change of heart, we can too!
The REASON FOR THE SEASON
What if the packages do not arrive in time, or the cards are not mailed? No worries! Christmastime is not just one day but is a whole season to celebrate! The gift of oneself cannot be wrapped in pretty paper and bows. We can show our love in unique and familiar ways. Bake that favorite family recipe, revisit old traditions, enjoy playing games together in good cheer!
A baby changes everything!
We all look forward for things to come, but nothing is more special than waiting for the arrival of a newborn baby. For nine months a family prepares for their little bundle of joy. They contemplate their very own miracle knowing this precious gift from heaven will change their lives forever.
Jesus’ Holy birth continues to bring wonder and awe for He is the fulfillment of God’s promise. His arrival has changed the whole world forever! As we adore Him in our nativity scenes, reflect on His Holy Family. We can only imagine their joyful hope as they prepared for the sacred event. With prayers of thanksgiving, place all hopes and fears in this eternal moment! Sleep in heavenly peace!
As we hang stockings and trim trees, let our hearts be light! Believe in the magic of St. Nicholas with the faith of a child! Sing favorite carols and wait in joyful hope for the arrival!
The infant Jesus will be born anew in the hearts of all who invite Him.
The Word is made flesh!
Let Him bring Joy to our World!
A Merry and Blessed Christmas to all!
Until our next walk through the garden
Comments