Awaken! It's Advent!

Barb Spies, OFS, Director of Mission Services and Pastoral Care

The Gospel reading for the first Sunday in Advent tells us that the day of redemption is at hand and that we are to “beware that our hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise like a trap.” We have a lot of parties and a lot of planning during the Advent season, so this warning seems like as good an idea for us today as it was for the disciples in Jesus’ time!

When I’m getting ready for my drive home from work, I make sure I have a caffeinated drink. It’s a long drive, and in the winter it’s even more tiring because of the sunset being so early. So I don’t want to be drowsy. I want to stay alert. While it’s easy to have a drink with caffeine before I head out, I have to be much more mindful about drowsiness of mind and spirit in Advent. Each day, I set aside time to pray and reflect. If I skip those moments, I tend to feel like I have set out on the drive home without a boost of energy. Prayer and reflection are the caffeine of my spiritual life. They remind me to keep awake and be ready for the day of redemption.

How will you keep awake? Do you have a booklet of Advent reflections to keep you primed for the day of the Nativity? Do you spend a silent moment with God to keep your day sacred? Do you have a prayer partner that you catch up with and share intentions? Is there music that helps you be ready? Get that cup of tea or coffee, find a cozy spot, and spend a moment each day in preparation for the Incarnation.

Blessed Angela: “All your deeds, thoughts, and words belong to Him.”