Advent is a time of anticipation as we await the fullness of joy that our faith promises to deliver, a season of "joyful hope." But, what exactly are we waiting to see, to experience? We have all experienced the joy of Christmas morning, where the feast is merry and gifts are manifold. Our celebrations, of course, recall the birth of Jesus, our Savior--an event that happened so many years ago in a stable stall. Yet, how does this event connect to our lives today, and furthermore can a past event transform our present and fulfill our future hopes and dreams, that is, all of our deepest longings? Our faith tells us YES We can expect God's reign to be fulfilled, but how? Dianne Bergant, author and Distinguished Professor of Old Testament Studies at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago writes, "God's reign will only be accomplished by God through you and me. When we treat the people in our lives with tenderness, we bring forth the reign of God. When we open our hearts to others so that they can find safety with us, we make living in harmony possible. When we cherish life itself, we begin to make peace a reality." Reflect and pray this Advent and Christmas with Scripture selections, reflections, and prayers to prepare the way of the Lord throughout Advent and Christmas in a way that's guaranteed to enhance your faith.
