"Light your candles quietly, such candles as you possess, wherever you are." — Alfred Delp
Advent (literally — coming or arrival) has been observed for centuries. Down through the centuries, people have taken time to contemplate Jesus’ birth. This season of four weeks of contemplation and anticipation has been highly regarded historically.
And yet, for the majority of people today, December flies by in a flurry of activities and becomes the most stressful month of the year.
Advent is observed the four weeks prior to Christmas, and I want you to appreciate it this year as you never have before. I intend to share thoughts in the days ahead of how God can come right into our hearts this 2004 Advent season.
Advent does not actually begin until Sunday, November 28th. But I wanted to "warn" you well in advance of what is coming. We’ll all be blessed for slowing down and pondering the coming of the Messiah.
I hope to write in the spirit of modern martyr Dietrich Bonhoeffer who wrote that the fact of God’s coming is not only a matter of glad tidings but, first of all, "frightening news for everyone who has a conscience."
This child in Bethlehem was the same man who was crucified on the cross and who rose again. Said differently, within the manger lies the cross — the hope of redemption and resurrection.
To recognize that requires reverence and humility. It takes faith.
So start thinking about the coming of the Savior, brothers, as in the weeks ahead we explore the mystery and beauty of Advent.
"Come, Lord Jesus."
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