Reflection for November

As if we did not know, or needed a reminder that Christmas is coming, the shops, the adverts on television are once again promising us – if only we will buy what they are selling - ‘The best Christmas ever!’  Christmas is indeed coming, - what expectations do we have? 

Advent, which begins on November 30th presents us with a time of preparation to celebrate yet again the coming of Jesus Christ. Advent offers an opportunity for us to pause in the mad rush towards December 25th, a chance if only for moments each day to step back from involvement in the struggle of buying presents, planning meals, arranging to accommodate visiting family and friends or travel to be with them. The truth of Christmas is somehow better, somehow greater, much more wonderful than all these things.

Advent tells us that we are missing something of great importance, that the world is not as it should be. Jesus Christ, God made man, is needed, desperately needed, once again to renew our hearts and minds with knowledge of the love and mercy of God, and to renew our efforts to make His kingdom a reality on earth for ourselves and our neighbours, neighbours wherever they live in this war weary world.

Advent fills us with hope, we open our hearts and wait prayerfully for Christ and the new day that he brings.