We wait
Perhaps you’re thinking about this, too. Some of us truly love Christmas and the anticipation of the season is part of the fun -- shopping, preparing, trees, cards, parties, and all. Others of us are not as fond of this time of the year. It seems to be blown out of proportion and for some, the hoopla takes away from what Christmas really means.
Advent is a season of waiting, not only for the celebration of Christmas, but also for Christ's return in glory. We linger in anticipation, preparing our minds and hearts for such great mysteries. By doing so, we appreciate more fully that for which we wait. We are called to be stewards of all of this, because in the seasons of Advent and Christmas, we focus on the message of God’s love for humanity.
In the incarnation, Jesus shows us the love of God. Christ witnesses this love in the meager dwelling of our humanity, and in the dwelling of a manger. Throughout Advent, especially from December 17 until Christmas, we sing “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.” Emmanuel, which means “God is with us,” is a particularly powerful title for Christ. When we call Jesus “Emmanuel” we are making a statement of deep faith and enduring hope. If God is with us, there is nothing to fear in life or death. If God is with us, we can trust that all will be well, regardless of the difficulties of the present moment. If God is with us, we can mirror God’s lavish giving by giving of ourselves and our resources, and know that in doing so, we help others to see that God is with them.
In Advent and Christmas, we are assured that God is with us! Our annual immersion into this truth provides comfort and calls us to shape our living as good stewards of God’s varied grace, especially the knowledge that Jesus is our Emmanuel.
Look for Christ where there is love. In the care of family members for one another; among friends; when you are compelled to greet a stranger or care for someone in need; in word and sacrament in the Mass; in the healing of Reconciliation.
Look for Christ in quiet. When your heart is filled with peace, especially when nothing can explain the calm you feel. When you find resolution in conflict; healing of body, mind, and spirit.
Look for Christ during difficulty. When simple things are hard; when life seems insurmountable; when your heart aches.
Look for Christ in others. Those who need care and those who give it. In the eyes of a friend who is in pain. In the lonely neighbor; the homeless person on the street; the sick and dying.
Look for Christ in unexpected places. When you least expect to experience God, remember, God is there!