by Sister Rose Jochmann
Can you believe it? Christmas is 10 days away! How is your Advent preparation going? Advent is such a short church season. Have you taken time to remember what the season is about? We are celebrating that Jesus, the Son of God, came to live among as a human being. We are celebrating that Jesus continues to live with each of us.
In church this weekend, you will notice that the pink Advent candle is lit. The pink candle tells us it is time to rejoice. The Entrance Antiphon says, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice. Indeed, the Lord is near.” This gives us a hint regarding the emphasis of the week. The first reading reminds us of the real reason for the Christmas season, “I rejoice heartily in the Lord, in my God is the joy of my soul.” The second reading continues the same theme, “Brothers and sisters: Rejoice always.” And the Gospel speaks about John the Baptist who was preaching “Good News to the people”.
So, as you finish your preparations for Christmas, don’t let yourself get stressed and anxious. Remember that the Lord is near, the Lord is with you. Rejoice! Bring that Good News to the people you meet.
Thank you, Sr. Rose, for the reminder that besides stress and anxiety there is great comfort to be held during Advent as well.
Thanks, Rose, for the reminder to take a deep breath, remember the reason for the season, and release any pre-Christmas anxiety.
This advent is going too fast. We are looking forward to a beautiful and holy Christmas. We wish that all the blessings of Christmas be with you.
Thank You Sister for the Advent reminder!
Great reminder of what Advent is all about and calls us to be as Christians. Thanks, Rose.