Comfort, O comfort my people… (Isaiah 40,1)
As we begin this second week of Advent the words of Isaiah seem to be written for our times. We look around the world today and everyone is suffering pain or loss along with uncertainty, and fear. Is there some wisdom for us in this season of Advent? How is God speaking to us at this time?
The word that emerges during this time Advent is longing. I hear myself or others express that we long to return to normal, we long to gather with family and friends, we long to travel again, we long to gather as faith communities and many other longings felt day by day. And wait…
These longings although not always pleasant, help us recognize what is important in our lives, and waiting for them is itself a manifestation that is God is with us. We can ask that we recognize God’s spirit of Hope and Light and ease our anxiety and fear during these dark days of this global pandemic. Strangely our longing comes from wanting more and understanding that we have enough. We see how the mystery of God works within us and around us.
The Celebration of Christmas recalls the birth of Jesus. However, it draws not to the past but invites us to see how God is present with us now. The gift of the Incarnation once again invites us to welcome Love who brings true dignity and security by embracing all and enriching all. This season calls us to share justly and celebrate joyfully. Blessings these Advent days!
-Sister Joan Atkinson, csj