The Spirit of Advent

Advent has begun in our home. The Jesse tree is up and, unlike last year, I managed to make a wreath for our four Advent candles. Our children have noticed the changes around our home and have responded with curiosity and excitement. It makes me smile when I see my children discovering the new things that I have put out for them to read and play with.

While so many people are rushing around, buying Christmas gifts, decorating and participating in Christmas festivities we are spending time differently. Today our family went to church and contemplated the first day of Advent. I reflected on what it means to embark on the journey of Advent and what it means to embrace the spirit of Advent.

I reflected on the words of Pope Benedict on Advent and was moved by his thoughts, particularly these ones:

"The Virgin Mary perfectly incarnates the spirit of Advent; this spirit is one of listening to God, of profound desire to do his will, of joyous service to our neighbor. Letting ourselves be guided by her, so that the God who comes does not find us closed and distracted, but can, in each one of us, extend a part of his kingdom of love, of justice and of peace."

So let us be like Mary and embrace the spirit of Advent, not only for the next four weeks, but for the weeks that follow as well.

A real family photo :)