Happy New Year
With Advent beginning, we are once again at the start of a new liturgical year. This year it may be even more noticeable as the readings we will hear in the Mass from now on will be from a different translation. Listen carefully, and see, does it change what you hear?
As well as marking the beginning of the new liturgical year, Advent is always a good time to press reset for ourselves. What do we want to let go of, what do we want to take on in order to prepare well to welcome the Christ-child at Christmas? The challenge can be in a busy life, particularly if you are also a parent/carer that the focus for Advent really becomes about a countdown to Christmas and the beauty of the Advent season in its own right is lost.
Why not take time this Advent, to really prepare, not so much your lists, your gifts, your holiday plans, but your heart to welcome Jesus. God loves you so much that he wants to make his home in you. What do you perhaps put in the way that somehow leads you to think that Jesus cannot break through? It doesn’t always have to be bad things. Sometimes we can be swept up doing good things, but when we really stop and reflect on them, they are not, however hard we try leading us to God. If you do recognise things that get in the way and you get the chance, why not try and attend the sacrament of reconciliation? It could be a very tangible way of preparing to receive Jesus once more this Christmas.
Another option is to become aware of the Scripture readings. Take time to remember all that God has done since the beginning of time - using a Jesse tree to help if you want to, but then make this remembrance personal. What do you want to give thanks to God for in your own life. If this is difficult for you, acknowledge it. Not everyone finds this easy. Some people’s lives are struggles. However, even in the struggles, God is there. The Christmas story shows us very clearly that God shows up in the mess and chaos of daily life.
Finally how about more consciously taking time to pray. You don’t need formal words, but just a raising of your heart and your mind to God. Try it and alongside your own needs and worries, try and pray for those who have no one to pray for them at this time. Happy Advent.
