As we begin the beautiful season of Advent, the Church invites us to pause, breathe, and enter a time of hopeful expectation. Advent is more than counting the weeks before Christmas; it is a spiritual journey that reminds us that Christ comes to us in three ways: in history at Bethlehem, in mystery through grace, and in glory at the end of time. Each year, we are given this sacred space to prepare our hearts to welcome Him anew.
Our lives can often feel hurried, noisy, and scattered. Advent gently calls us back to what truly matters. It is a season that teaches us to wait—not with frustration, but with faith. In a world that values instant results, Advent invites us to rediscover patience, silence, and trust in God’s timing.
As we light the first candle of the Advent wreath, the candle of hope, let us ask ourselves: What am I truly longing for? Where do I need Christ’s light to shine?
I encourage each of us to make a simple, realistic Advent plan—one that nourishes the soul. It may be setting aside five quiet minutes each morning for prayer, reading a short Gospel passage daily, attending a weekday Mass, or performing small acts of kindness for those in need. What matters is that we prepare a place in our hearts where Christ can dwell more deeply. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Create a “Mary’s Corner” at home: Place an image or statue of Mary with a candle.
Spend 3–5 minutes daily praying: “Mary, help me welcome Jesus today.”
2. Practice one act of hidden kindness every day: Advent is about preparing the manger in our hearts. Acts of love create straw in the manger where Christ will rest.
3. Pray the Rosary or at least one decade daily: Especially the Joyful Mysteries, which reflect the Advent spirit.
4. Make room for silence: Just 2 minutes of quiet prayer each morning or night.
Whisper: “Speak, Lord, your servant is listening.”
Let this Advent be different.
Let this Advent be quieter, deeper, more prayerful.
Let this Advent be a time where we allow Christ to be born not only in Bethlehem, but in our hearts, our families, and our parish.
And let us remember: Advent is not about preparing for a day. Advent is about preparing for a Person—Jesus Christ.
Intercession to Mother Mary:
Mother Mary, woman of Advent, teach us to wait with patience, to listen with the heart, to say yes with courage, and to hope with confidence. Walk with us this season as we prepare to welcome Jesus. Amen.
May this Advent season renew our hope, strengthen our faith, and lead us closer to the Lord who comes to save us.
