“Beware that your 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. For that day will assault everyone who lives on the
face of the earth. Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the
strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand
before the Son of Man.” Lk 21:34-36
But at this time of year, how
many of us, including Christians, do allow worldly anxieties to crowd out
thoughts of our ultimate destination? When hype about Black Friday and Cyber
Monday can bring on anxiety about finding just the right gift for everyone on
your list - and more than a little anxiety about how to pay the bills for the
shopping madness - the season of Advent, meant to be a time of prayer and
preparation for the coming of the infant Jesus at Christmas, is often skipped
over unnoticed.
I recently read an online
discussion among non-Catholic Christians about when to take down Harvest
decorations and put up the Christmas décor. The consensus was that Christmas
decorating should immediately follow Thanksgiving so that it could be enjoyed
for a longer time. It went without saying that the decorations had to come down
by January 1st. There was no mention of the Church calendar, the Advent season,
or the fact that Christmas season extends through Epiphany. None were aware of
these or the many other liturgical celebrations that have guided Christians for
centuries.
The Church seasons include times
of fasting and times of feasting, each intended to bring us closer to God. The
carefully chosen readings help us to more fully understand the meaning of the
events in the life of Christ. During this busy season, taking a little time
every day to pray with the Advent readings can help us be prepared, in heart
and mind, for the coming of the Lord at Christmas – and at the end of time.
Pray, fast, and do not fear, for your salvation is at hand!
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