It’s Advent. Are you ready?

Where did the year go? Happy New Year by the way- new liturgical year that is. That was one of my takeaways from working in a Catholic school- I was reminded of all sorts of things I forgot!

The new year begins with Advent- a period of waiting. We are waiting expectantly for the coming of Jesus and we celebrate that for the four weeks leading up to Christmas. This is a season of hope, giving, and expectation, but it seems like the entire world is trying to cram as much in during this time as possible.

This week, as we light the Advent wreath for the first time, the theme of the week is hope. What are you hoping for this season? The people in the Old Testament were hoping for a savior, a messiah. They received one, just not how they expected. The candle this week is purple- in anticipation of Jesus’ coming.

Advent is a time for prayer and quiet contemplation. When is there time amidst the shopping, preparing, holiday parties, and work? It seems like right now, this moment is the last ‘quiet time’ I have for the next few weeks. My time is taken by work and fun activities, I have to make sure I am taking the time for prayer.

Each year, I attend an Advent retreat. This is my time to just be and contemplate where I have been in the past year and to look ahead to what I am hoping and expecting in the new year. It’s just a moment to pause and I treasure that time because the world cannot intrude.

This week, as you ponder the hope in Jesus’ coming. What hopes are you holding in your heart? Will you share them with Jesus this week? Commit to spending a few quiet minutes each day in prayer. What are you waiting for/expecting in this season? Name it and tell Jesus all about it. He’s waiting for you to let him in.