There’s something about the season of Advent that always brings me joy: the wreath and candles (when they don’t catch on fire – see: Advent at Immaculate Conception parish 2023); the church bathed in royal purple hues; the signs of light and life amidst the darkness and cold of the season. It is as if the Church is saying to us: Stay awake! See the world around you in a brand new light.
So often, as Christian disciples living in this modern and hectic world, we forget to take the time to really see. We’re so busy with work and school and Christmas preparations that we overlook or completely miss God’s light and love in the present moment, wherever we may find ourselves. Yet, that is exactly where He is – and He wants us to remember that.
While it is true that the Advent season gives us the opportunity to both reflect on God’s love at work in history (the Incarnation of Jesus) as well as prepare ourselves for His return at the end of time in glory, these next four weeks should also challenge us to recognize the often hidden and humble ways Christ comes to us now: in Sacrament, in Word and in community. I love knowing that Jesus makes his love present even now in the kind words of a stranger; in the nurse who takes time to listen to our anxiety; and in the child mesmerized by the glow of Christmas lights. God is there in the silence of a car ride home after a difficult day, and He is present in the embrace of a family member who sees the struggles you are facing.
Our Lord could come to us in earth-shaking ways, and one day – at the end of time – He will. But most times, at least for now, His love comes in the quiet, often-overlooked moments of daily life. May this time of Advent open our hearts to the ways in which He wants to surprise us and reach us with His Love. It can only happen if we stay awake …