The count has started. Counting the candles I mean. Each Sunday we light an Advent candle to mark the weeks to Christmas. I like Advent. It puts a spiritual lens on Christmas preparations, it encourages us to slow down, to look inward, to think of Jesus.
This festive season can prompt emotional turmoil for many. Separated and divided families find it difficult, sometimes even traumatic, to sort out family times over the holidays. People with limited income find the drive to shop and purchase and give very stressful. Folks that live with emotional turmoil find these days even more challenging. All this seems a painful development from the humble birth of one who came to incarnate God’s love.
Advent helps me keep focus. Each day of this season reminds me I am preparing for the birth of Jesus not the onslaught of commercialism. Each week reminds me that the day draws near to celebrate the birth of one who changed the world. The long dark nights of December remind me how important it is to notice the light that shines in the darkness. Advent reminds me to keep hoping, to work for peace, to delight in joy and to recognize love. Happy Advent.
