Advent. A time of preparation. A time of hope. A time of joy.
The Advent season is by far my favorite time of the year. It’s a time where everything feels a little brighter, a little happier and just a little better. There’s a sense of hope and belief in the air.
Throughout the Advent season we are preparing for the birth of Jesus. We are anticipating his coming into the world. As Catholics, we’re called to prepare ourselves spiritually for this anticipated arrival. We are meant to spend time in prayer, with scripture and prepare our hearts to welcome Jesus, our Lord and Savior, to live within each of our hearts.
Of course, this time of year also tends to be the busiest time of year. We have family get-togethers, parties with friends, office parties, Christmas shopping, tree lightings, baking cookies, decorating our homes and the list goes on and on. It’s easy to get caught up in worldliness of the season and lose sight of what the meaning of this time of year truly is about. During a season where it’s easy to have your schedule completely booked, remind yourself to include the reason for the season in your schedule too. I’m all for enjoying the festivities of this wonderful season, but it’s important to also remember why this season is so beautiful. We are awaiting the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. So, let’s promise each other not to get caught up in the presents but instead, get caught up in His presence.
May you all have a blessed Advent!