Advent 

   Today is Advent Sunday, the beginning of the new liturgical year in the Catholic Church.  Advent is a time of preparation for the celebration of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.  It is also a time to look to the time when He will come again in Glory.

   I love this time of year.  Not because of the decorations, parties, or even the presents given and received.  I love it for the incredible gift of our Lord lowering Himself to become one like me in all ways but sin.  I love it for the vision of Jesus as an infant, the Son of God, placing His very life in the hands of those of His creation, our Blessed Mother and Joseph.

   I like to imagine Jesus as he grew up.  His humanity, especially as a child, brings me closer to Him.  As a child He probably fell and skinned His knees just as we do, running to Mom for love and comfort.  He learned a trade with Joseph, becoming a carpenter.  He knew pain and sorrow, rejection, abandonment, and even death.  All because He loves me and all His children.

   Advent also reminds me that He will come again in glory.  On the cross He overcame death. He has conquered the world.  At His second coming the universe as we know it will cease to exist and a new world will come.  A world of love and joy, with no pain, no sorrow, only the glory of God.

   From now until Christmas we will be tempted to partake of the pleasures of this world, paying homage to the false gods of society.  Advent reminds us that there is a better reason to celebrate, the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ. 

Lead us in this journey to You.

Help us to know and love You better.

As we prepare for Your birth.

May we also prepare for Your second coming. 

Amen